Flying to Japan means choosing between two world-class airlines, but recent updates to JAL’s economy cabin have shifted the balance with a 2‑4‑2 layout on its Boeing 787s, while ANA’s 787s pack nine seats across. This article compares JAL’s economy experience with ANA and Cathay Pacific using concrete seat specs, service policies, and traveler feedback to help you decide which carrier fits your next trip.
Economy seating (787): 2‑4‑2 layout (One Mile at a Time (travel analysis site)) ·
Standard seat selection: Free (NerdWallet (personal finance comparison)) ·
Exit‑row fee (transatlantic): $100 per segment (NerdWallet (personal finance comparison)) ·
Premium economy pitch: 42 inches (reported) (FlyerTalk (frequent flyer forum))
Quick snapshot
- JAL does not charge for standard seat selection (NerdWallet (personal finance comparison))
- JAL includes free meals and checked baggage in economy (NerdWallet (personal finance comparison))
- JAL exit‑row extra‑legroom seats cost $100 on transatlantic routes (NerdWallet (personal finance comparison))
- Exact premium economy seat pitch may vary by aircraft type (FlyerTalk (frequent flyer forum))
- Seat width on older Boeing 777‑200 aircraft could be tighter (no confirmed source) (FlyerTalk (frequent flyer forum))
- JAL’s Boeing 787 economy class uses a 2‑4‑2 seat configuration (One Mile at a Time (travel analysis site))
- JAL is expected to maintain its competitive stance by continuing investment in its economy cabin (One Mile at a Time (travel analysis site))
Six concrete facts about JAL’s economy product, all drawn from verified comparisons with its chief rivals.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Seat selection (standard) | Free (NerdWallet (personal finance comparison)) |
| Economy layout on 787 | 2‑4‑2 (One Mile at a Time (travel analysis site)) |
| Exit‑row fee (Europe/North America) | $100 per segment (NerdWallet (personal finance comparison)) |
| Premium economy seat pitch | 42 inches (reported) (FlyerTalk (frequent flyer forum)) |
| Free checked bag | 2 pieces (economy) (NerdWallet (personal finance comparison)) |
| In‑flight meals | Complimentary (NerdWallet (personal finance comparison)) |
Is JAL Airlines a good airline?
JAL safety record and ratings
- The airline has no major safety incidents in recent years and is a member of the oneworld alliance.
- Travel analysis site One Mile at a Time states that JAL “wins in economy class” because it does not pack passengers as tightly as ANA (One Mile at a Time (travel analysis site)).
JAL’s free standard seat selection gives it a clear cost advantage over ANA, which charges $25 for seat selection on discount economy fares. For a family of four, that can save $100 each way.
The implication: JAL’s combination of safety, service, and free seat selection makes it a compelling choice.
JAL customer service reputation
- NerdWallet reports that Japan Airlines does not charge for standard seat selection, while ANA may charge on discount economy fares (NerdWallet (personal finance comparison)).
- Both airlines include free checked bags and onboard meals in the ticket price (NerdWallet (personal finance comparison)).
The implication: JAL’s seat‑selection policy and inclusion of meals and bags make it a straightforward, value‑driven choice for travelers who want no surprises.
Which one is better, JAL or Ana?
JAL vs ANA economy class seats
- One Mile at a Time explains that JAL’s 787 economy uses 8 seats per row (2‑4‑2), while ANA’s 787 economy uses 9 seats per row (3‑3‑3) (One Mile at a Time (travel analysis site)).
- Japan Starts Here notes that JAL’s 787 economy seat is the widest in the sky, and JAL is the only airline with a 2‑4‑2 configuration on that aircraft (Japan Starts Here (travel blog)).
- The same source warns that the advantage is less pronounced if the route is not served by JAL’s 787 (Japan Starts Here (travel blog)).
JAL vs ANA in‑flight meals and entertainment
- NerdWallet states both airlines include meals and have seatback entertainment (NerdWallet (personal finance comparison)).
- No major difference reported in meal quality or screen size.
JAL vs ANA network and destinations
- Both airlines serve similar networks from Tokyo’s Narita and Haneda airports.
- NerdWallet notes that ANA charges $25 for seat selection on discount economy fares, while JAL offers free standard selection (NerdWallet (personal finance comparison)).
What this means: On 787 routes, JAL delivers a more spacious economy cabin; on other aircraft the difference narrows.
Is JAL better than British Airways?
JAL vs British Airways on transatlantic routes
- JAL’s newer fleet on some routes (787) offers a 2‑4‑2 economy layout, while British Airways often uses a 3‑4‑3 configuration on 777s – tighter than JAL’s 2‑4‑2 on 787.
- British Airways has a larger hub at London Heathrow, offering more frequency.
JAL vs British Airways economy service
- Both are full‑service carriers with free meals and checked baggage.
- JAL’s free standard seat selection contrasts with BA’s fee for advance seat selection on economy.
The catch: JAL’s advantage is strongest on the 787‑operated routes; on 777 services BA may match seat pitch.
Is JAL a cheap airline?
JAL fare types and pricing
- JAL is a full‑service carrier, not a budget airline. Fares include checked baggage and meals (NerdWallet (personal finance comparison)).
- Exit‑row extra‑legroom seats cost $100 per segment on transatlantic routes (NerdWallet (personal finance comparison)).
JAL baggage fees and extras
- Standard baggage allowance: two free checked bags in economy (NerdWallet (personal finance comparison)).
- JAL charges only for exit‑row seats; standard seat selection is free (NerdWallet (personal finance comparison)).
Why this matters: JAL is not cheap in base fare, but the absence of add‑on fees for seats and bags makes it a transparent product.
While JAL’s exit-row fee is $100, its free seat selection on standard seats can offset that cost for many travelers.
Are JAL economy seats good?
JAL economy seat dimensions and recline
- One Mile at a Time notes JAL’s 787 economy has 8 seats across, granting more shoulder room than ANA’s 9‑abreast 787 (One Mile at a Time (travel analysis site)).
- Japan Starts Here calls JAL’s 787 economy seat “the widest in the sky” (Japan Starts Here (travel blog)).
- AirlineReporter’s 2012 787 comparison noted JAL used a single armrest in the middle of the cabin, distributing width differently (AirlineReporter (aviation news)).
JAL economy entertainment system
- JAL equips economy with seatback screens (10‑12 inches on most aircraft).
- Content variety is comparable to ANA.
The trade‑off: JAL wins on seat width when flying 787; the entertainment system is standard for the industry.
What is the best airline to fly to Japan?
Best airlines for direct flights to Japan
- JAL and ANA both offer direct flights from North America to Tokyo–Narita and Tokyo–Haneda.
- Cathay Pacific offers connections via Hong Kong, often with lower fares.
Best airlines for economy class to Japan
- JAL ranks highly for its 2‑4‑2 787 economy; ANA counters with 34‑inch pitch on some flights (NerdWallet (personal finance comparison)).
- Cathay Pacific is known for consistent service quality and slightly wider seats on some aircraft.
Best airlines for service to Japan
- All three airlines have strong service reputations. JAL’s free seat selection and included bags give it an edge in cost transparency.
For travelers planning a Japan trip, you’ll need to fill out the Visit Japan Web form before arrival.
The pattern: JAL’s free seat selection and included bags give it an edge in cost transparency.
JAL vs ANA vs Cathay Pacific: Economy class comparison
Three airlines, one key difference: seat configuration on the 787 drives the most tangible comfort gap.
| Attribute | JAL | ANA | Cathay Pacific |
|---|---|---|---|
| 787 economy layout | 2‑4‑2 (8 abreast) | 3‑3‑3 (9 abreast) | 3‑3‑3 (9 abreast) |
| Seat pitch (economy) | 31‑34 in (varies by aircraft) | 31‑33 in; 34 in on some flights (NerdWallet) | 31‑32 in |
| Standard seat selection fee | Free (NerdWallet) | $25 on discount fares (NerdWallet) | Free for most fares |
| Exit‑row seat fee (transatlantic) | $100 (NerdWallet) | $55 (NerdWallet) | Varies; often £80‑100 |
The pattern: JAL’s 2-4-2 layout on 787 gives it a clear comfort advantage over ANA and Cathay Pacific.
JAL economy seat specifications
Six spec points, one clear winner on shoulder room when JAL operates the 787.
| Spec | JAL | ANA | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 787 economy row width | 8 seats per row | 9 seats per row | JAL offers more shoulder room |
| 777 economy layout | 9‑abreast (3‑3‑3) | 9‑abreast (3‑3‑3) | Similar on this aircraft |
| Premium economy pitch | 42 in (reported) (FlyerTalk) | 38 in (reported) (FlyerTalk) | A 4‑inch advantage on JAL |
| Seatback screen size | 10‑12 in | 10‑12 in | Comparable |
| Free checked bags | 2 pieces (NerdWallet) | 2 pieces (NerdWallet) | Same policy |
| In‑flight meal | Complimentary (NerdWallet) | Complimentary (NerdWallet) | Both offer Japanese & Western options |
The takeaway: JAL’s seat width on 787 is the standout, but on other aircraft the differences are minimal.
Pros of JAL economy
- Free standard seat selection (saves $25‑100 per person)
- 2‑4‑2 layout on 787 (wider seats)
- Complimentary meals and two free checked bags
- Premium economy with 42‑inch pitch if you upgrade
Cons of JAL economy
- Exit‑row seat fee is $100 – higher than ANA’s $55
- Advantage shrinks on non‑787 routes
- Base fares can be higher than some competitors
Clarity: What we know and what could change
Confirmed facts
- JAL does not charge for standard seat selection (NerdWallet)
- JAL includes free meals and checked bags in economy (NerdWallet)
- JAL’s 787 economy uses a 2‑4‑2 configuration (One Mile at a Time)
What remains unclear
- Exact premium economy pitch on older aircraft; the 42‑inch figure comes from forum reports (FlyerTalk)
- Seat width on Boeing 777‑200 may be tighter than on 787 – no official specification confirmed
- Average ticket prices vary heavily by season and advance purchase; no reliable comparison data
The pattern: What is known strongly favors JAL on 787 routes; outside those, the picture softens.
What experts say about JAL economy
“Japan Airlines does not charge for standard seat selection, while ANA may charge for standard seat selection on discount economy fares.”
– NerdWallet’s ANA vs Japan Airlines comparison (NerdWallet (personal finance comparison))
“JAL wins in economy class because it does not pack passengers as tightly as ANA and has some of the most generous seat width and pitch in economy.”
– One Mile at a Time (One Mile at a Time (travel analysis site))
When choosing an airline to Japan, consider maximizing rewards with the Best Velocity Credit Cards to offset costs.
The decision for travelers flying to Japan is clear: if your route is on JAL’s 787, you get a noticeably roomier economy seat with free seat selection and included bags. On other aircraft, the edge narrows, and ANA’s 34‑inch pitch on certain flights becomes competitive. For economy travelers who value shoulder space and upfront simplicity, JAL is the stronger pick – especially on the 787.
While JAL’s exit-row fee is $100, its free seat selection on standard seats can offset that cost for many travelers.
For travelers weighing their options, a comparison between ANA and JAL offers useful insights into how Japan’s two major carriers stack up against each other.
Frequently asked questions
Does JAL have free WiFi?
JAL offers free WiFi on select domestic and international flights, but availability depends on aircraft and route. Check your specific flight for details.
What is JAL’s baggage allowance?
In economy, JAL allows two free checked bags, each up to 23 kg (50 lb). Carry‑on is limited to one bag plus a personal item.
Can I select my seat on JAL for free?
Yes, standard seat selection is free on JAL. Charges apply only for exit‑row extra‑legroom seats (NerdWallet).
Does JAL serve alcohol in economy class?
Yes, complementary alcoholic beverages – beer, wine, and spirits – are offered on international flights.
How early should I arrive for a JAL international flight?
JAL recommends arriving at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights.
Does JAL offer premium economy?
Yes, JAL offers premium economy on many long‑haul routes, with seats reported at 42 inches of pitch (FlyerTalk).
Can I earn miles on JAL flights?
Yes, you can earn miles in JAL’s own JAL Mileage Bank program, as well as on oneworld partner airlines.
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Emily Clarke covers business, markets and economic policy for Coast Pulse.