Top 7 Business Class Routes from Tokyo to Los Angeles Comparing ANA’s ‘The Room’ vs JAL’s Sky Suite III (2024 Review)

Top 7 Business Class Routes from Tokyo to Los Angeles Comparing ANA's 'The Room' vs JAL's Sky Suite III (2024 Review) - ANA The Room Direct Flight NH106 Departs NRT at 16 -45 Daily

ANA's NH106 departs daily from Narita (NRT) at 4:45 PM, offering a direct route to Los Angeles (LAX). This flight is operated by one of ANA's Boeing 777-300ERs, equipped with "The Room" business class cabin. The concept of "The Room" revolves around individual, enclosed suites that feature sliding doors, which helps create a more private and comfortable environment during the roughly 9-hour flight. It's a solid choice for those who value both comfort and personal space while traveling. While ANA's original business class seats are still a decent option for privacy, thanks to the high walls between the seats, the newer "The Room" cabin signifies a step forward in business class travel.

ANA has been building a strong reputation for quality and service, and this route reinforces this image. Whether the latest "The Room" design fully lives up to that reputation is something travelers will have to experience first-hand. It's worth considering that ANA also operates daily flights from Haneda (HND) to LAX, which could potentially feature these new cabins as well. The frequent flights emphasize the strong connection between Japan and the United States, highlighting ANA's commitment to providing connections. When browsing options, those looking for "The Room" specifically should be aware it's labeled as an "Individual Suite" on most flight platforms.

ANA's NH106, a daily departure from Narita at 4:45 PM, is strategically timed to land in Los Angeles in the early morning hours. This approach seems geared toward minimizing the impact of jet lag for travelers arriving from Tokyo. It's an intriguing aspect of the flight's planning.

The "The Room" product on this flight is noteworthy for its spacious individual suites. These can be converted into fully flat beds, measuring almost 80 inches long—a definite plus for taller passengers who crave comfort during the extended flight. The generous personal space is a key differentiator.

The in-flight entertainment system in "The Room" boasts 24-inch screens, which seems to be among the larger displays in business class offerings. It's an area where ANA has focused on elevating the passenger experience, albeit whether it's the *best* is up for debate.

While ANA is part of Star Alliance, I wonder what the actual tangible impact of this is for the frequent flyer. There are likely some intriguing possibilities, allowing travelers to accrue and redeem miles with a network of carriers. But it remains to be seen how valuable this aspect is for an average traveler.

The focus on Japanese cuisine in the onboard meals is certainly an interesting approach. It's part of a trend seen in the industry, emphasizing fresh seasonal ingredients, often tied to a specific region. How well this translates into global appeal is an area worthy of further exploration.

The data indicates a remarkably low cancellation rate for this route, suggesting a degree of operational reliability. Whether this is due to superior operational capabilities, less weather disruptions or even some sort of pre-emptive cancelling due to potential problems remains unknown.

The menu-tasting program that ANA touts is certainly an interesting angle. The concept of passenger feedback influencing the menu every quarter shows some attention to the passenger's wishes and potentially evolving tastes. However, to what extent this impacts the average passenger is questionable.

The addition of a self-service bar in the "The Room" is a new concept in airline business class, giving passengers greater control over their refreshments. It's a subtle change that might foster a feeling of flexibility, though it also poses some questions about potential service staff reduction.

ANA's Narita lounge offers travelers a sanctuary to escape pre-flight pressures. The shower facilities, diverse menu offerings, and overall calm ambiance cater to relaxation, arguably mitigating some stress. Access is, of course, limited to business class travelers.

NH106 stands out with its consistent daily service on this route. This aspect highlights ANA's dedication to providing a reliable connection between major hubs, an important factor in this sector, though with so many changes in the airline industry and route networks, consistency may not always be achievable.

What else is in this post?

1. Top 7 Business Class Routes from Tokyo to Los Angeles Comparing ANA's 'The Room' vs JAL's Sky Suite III (2024 Review) - ANA The Room Direct Flight NH106 Departs NRT at 16 -45 Daily
2. Top 7 Business Class Routes from Tokyo to Los Angeles Comparing ANA's 'The Room' vs JAL's Sky Suite III (2024 Review) - JAL Sky Suite III JL62 Departing HND at 00 -45 Daily
3. Top 7 Business Class Routes from Tokyo to Los Angeles Comparing ANA's 'The Room' vs JAL's Sky Suite III (2024 Review) - JAL Sky Suite III JL16 Departing NRT at 17 -25 Daily
4. Top 7 Business Class Routes from Tokyo to Los Angeles Comparing ANA's 'The Room' vs JAL's Sky Suite III (2024 Review) - ANA The Room NH116 Departing HND at 23 -55 Daily
5. Top 7 Business Class Routes from Tokyo to Los Angeles Comparing ANA's 'The Room' vs JAL's Sky Suite III (2024 Review) - JAL Sky Suite III JL12 Morning Departure from NRT at 10 -15
6. Top 7 Business Class Routes from Tokyo to Los Angeles Comparing ANA's 'The Room' vs JAL's Sky Suite III (2024 Review) - ANA The Room NH102 Early Morning Flight from HND at 00 -05
7. Top 7 Business Class Routes from Tokyo to Los Angeles Comparing ANA's 'The Room' vs JAL's Sky Suite III (2024 Review) - JAL Sky Suite III JL60 Mid-Day Flight from HND at 12 -30

Top 7 Business Class Routes from Tokyo to Los Angeles Comparing ANA's 'The Room' vs JAL's Sky Suite III (2024 Review) - JAL Sky Suite III JL62 Departing HND at 00 -45 Daily

JAL's JL62 flight, departing Haneda (HND) at 12:45 AM daily, offers a convenient late-night departure for those heading to Los Angeles. This flight, operated by a Boeing 787-9, features the airline's Sky Suite III business class cabin, a notable option in the transpacific market. The cabin offers a 1-2-1 seat configuration, meaning every passenger has direct aisle access, a feature that many travelers value. The seats themselves are generous in width, and they convert to fully flat beds, promising comfort on this lengthy journey. JAL has always had a solid reputation for service, and this extends to their business class. They have always been known for their dining experience. Here, you'll find high-quality meal service throughout the flight, with an emphasis on Japanese cuisine. However, while the product is quite desirable, earning a spot on JAL's Sky Suite III through awards has become a bit more challenging. Award ticket pricing has seen a significant increase. In the past, the cost of a business class ticket could be as low as 25,000 miles. Currently, it appears that you will need to spend 50,000 miles per ticket. Those planning to use miles for travel might need to revisit their point-earning plans if they are considering this experience.



JAL's Sky Suite III, found on their Boeing 787-9 aircraft operating flight JL62, offers a compelling business class experience departing Haneda (HND) at 12:45 AM daily, making it attractive for those seeking a late-night departure from Tokyo to Los Angeles. This daily flight provides a comfortable and efficient way to begin a transpacific journey.

The cabin features a 1-2-1 configuration, accommodating 44 business class seats, all with direct aisle access, a feature that eliminates the need to climb over other passengers. The seats themselves are 20 inches wide and convert into fully flat beds, offering a decent amount of personal space for a comfortable sleep during the nearly 10-hour flight. In the overall design, JAL clearly prioritizes comfort, and space has a particular focus on passengers who travel solo or as couples.

Beyond seating, JL62 passengers enjoy the usual business class perks such as priority check-in and security in some places, as well as expedited baggage handling. They also have access to JAL’s lounges before departure.

Food is often highlighted as a strength of JAL. The airline's approach to business class meals is ambitious, presenting high-quality food. They often leverage seasonal ingredients and Japanese culinary traditions. It remains to be seen if the emphasis on Japanese cuisine appeals to all travelers, though it's definitely a unique characteristic.


Changes to the mileage program are an interesting development, particularly if you are looking to book using points. For a while, you could get a ticket for 25,000 miles with the Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan, but it's now bumped to 50,000 miles. This demonstrates how the point systems constantly change and can have a noticeable impact for travelers who are trying to maximize their points.

JAL's Sky Suite III positions itself as a worthy contender against ANA's 'The Room,' though some may feel that 'The Room' provides more seclusion for the individual passenger with its sliding doors. However, the overall focus on design and service seems to be well executed by JAL, especially as it prioritizes a larger seating space in the cabin.

Top 7 Business Class Routes from Tokyo to Los Angeles Comparing ANA's 'The Room' vs JAL's Sky Suite III (2024 Review) - JAL Sky Suite III JL16 Departing NRT at 17 -25 Daily

JAL's daily flight JL16 departing Narita (NRT) at 5:25 PM offers a direct connection to Los Angeles (LAX). This flight is a strong contender on the transpacific route, featuring the JAL Sky Suite III business class cabin onboard a Boeing 787-9. The Sky Suite III is notable for its 1-2-1 seating arrangement, a layout that ensures every passenger enjoys direct aisle access. It's a design feature that many passengers value highly.

The cabin offers 52 fully flat-bed seats spread across two sections, offering a generous amount of space and a sense of privacy for a long-haul flight. JAL has a reputation for solid service, and the Sky Suite III generally fulfills expectations with comfort and a well-regarded onboard dining experience. However, JAL's changes to their mileage program recently have made booking with miles a bit more challenging, so those aiming for awards on this route should adjust their point accumulation strategy accordingly.

JL16 provides a well-rounded option for travelers on the Tokyo-Los Angeles route, combining comfort with a decent service quality. It's certainly a choice to consider if you are looking for a pleasant experience on a long-haul flight.

JAL's Sky Suite III, featured on the daily JL16 flight departing Narita (NRT) at 5:25 PM, offers a compelling business class experience for travelers heading to Los Angeles (LAX). This route, spanning about 5,500 miles, is operated by a Boeing 787-9, a plane known for its fuel efficiency and aerodynamic design, making it suitable for transpacific journeys.

The 1-2-1 seat configuration in the Sky Suite III cabin is a notable design choice. Studies have indicated that direct aisle access reduces bottlenecks during boarding and disembarking, improving the overall passenger flow. Each of the 52 seats across the two cabins offers ample legroom and privacy, a clear focus on individual passenger comfort. The seats are designed for full flat-bed conversions, catering to passengers who prioritize quality sleep during long-haul flights, a crucial aspect in promoting relaxation and improving the traveler experience.

The late afternoon departure time of JL16 is designed to help travelers adjust to the time difference between Tokyo and Los Angeles. This is based on the understanding of circadian rhythms and how they impact jet lag, providing passengers a chance to ease into the new time zone naturally.

JAL's Sky Suite III emphasizes a focus on Japanese cuisine, drawing inspiration from the "shun" philosophy. This highlights the use of seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, a concept that research has shown can lead to a higher satisfaction with the onboard meals. This dedication to high-quality dining extends to their lounges, offering a pre-flight oasis for passengers with an array of options, including relaxation areas and culinary choices. These premium lounges are designed to reduce pre-flight stress and heighten the passenger's sense of anticipation before the journey.

However, JAL's frequent flyer program recently experienced a significant change. The cost of booking a business class ticket on JL16 using Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan doubled from 25,000 to 50,000 miles. This fluctuation highlights the often volatile nature of frequent flyer programs across various airlines.

Beyond dining and program fluctuations, the entertainment systems on JL16 are a testament to the importance of technology within the flying experience. These in-flight entertainment systems are geared towards user-friendliness, a vital aspect in keeping passengers engaged and occupied during extended flights.

JAL also encourages a communal approach to dining in business class. The opportunity for shared meals and conversations is an intriguing aspect of the service, highlighting how travel can also provide chances for social interaction and enrich the overall experience.

Ultimately, the JL16 flight showcases JAL's dedication to delivering a comfortable and refined transpacific experience. The aircraft, cabin design, schedule, and service approach, especially the culinary emphasis, contribute to the attractiveness of this route for business class passengers flying between Narita and Los Angeles. Though it is interesting how JAL’s operational reliability compares to ANA.

Top 7 Business Class Routes from Tokyo to Los Angeles Comparing ANA's 'The Room' vs JAL's Sky Suite III (2024 Review) - ANA The Room NH116 Departing HND at 23 -55 Daily

ANA's daily NH116 flight from Tokyo's Haneda Airport (HND) at 11:55 PM offers a direct route to Vancouver (YVR), arriving in the afternoon. This flight utilizes ANA's "The Room" business class, a unique offering that highlights the airline's commitment to innovation and passenger comfort. The Room, conceived by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, emphasizes Japanese aesthetics and a sense of tranquility. It boasts some of the largest and most private business class suites available, complete with sliding doors for a greater degree of privacy.

The seats, arranged in a staggered 1-2-1 configuration, ensure each passenger enjoys direct aisle access, eliminating the need to disturb others during the flight. The suites convert into fully flat beds, ideal for a restful sleep on this lengthy flight. While the focus on design and comfort is commendable, it remains to be seen how well The Room fares against newer and more affordable business class products offered by competing carriers, as the landscape continues to shift with various airlines expanding premium cabin options. The addition of self-service bars within the suites is another innovative approach, giving travelers more control over their refreshments.

For frequent travelers, earning and using miles with ANA or through partner programs like Aeroplan can certainly add value, though keeping track of the often fluctuating value of miles can be challenging. Ultimately, whether The Room lives up to the high expectations set by ANA's reputation is something travelers need to experience firsthand. It's certainly a standout feature for anyone prioritizing comfort and seclusion on a long-haul flight, however whether it delivers the best value remains to be assessed, especially when competing with other carriers on this route.

ANA's NH116, departing daily from Haneda (HND) at 11:55 PM, offers a late-night departure option to Vancouver (YVR). This flight utilizes one of ANA's Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, featuring the innovative "The Room" business class cabin. The Room, designed with inspiration from Japanese aesthetics by architect Kengo Kuma, consists of individual suites with sliding doors that maximize privacy, a feature increasingly important for long-haul journeys.

The Room is notable for its spacious suites, regarded as among the largest and most private in the airline industry. It features a 1-2-1 staggered seating configuration, ensuring each passenger enjoys direct aisle access. While the sliding doors provide a good level of privacy, they aren't fully enclosed, leaving a slight gap. Each seat converts into a lie-flat bed, an important element for comfort on extended flights.

ANA introduced The Room in July 2019 as part of a refresh of its premium cabin offerings, aiming to improve the travel experience for business and first-class passengers. Interestingly, this refresh could potentially be analyzed through the lens of engineering design, particularly if one considers the factors like seat layout and door mechanisms. It's a notable example of how an airline incorporates design and technology to differentiate its offering.

Travelers can accumulate and redeem points on ANA flights through various programs like Aeroplan. It's interesting to see how such a program plays out for the average passenger, and perhaps research might indicate how airlines balance their own frequent flyer programs with their connections to other airlines.

Comparisons between The Room and competitors like Japan Airlines' Sky Suite III are frequent. It will be intriguing to see how these two products evolve, and how passenger feedback impacts future designs and technological integration within airline cabins. It's likely the technological features, such as in-flight entertainment and seat controls, will become progressively more sophisticated, leading to a competition in the innovation landscape.

Top 7 Business Class Routes from Tokyo to Los Angeles Comparing ANA's 'The Room' vs JAL's Sky Suite III (2024 Review) - JAL Sky Suite III JL12 Morning Departure from NRT at 10 -15

JAL's JL12, departing Narita at 10:15 AM, presents a compelling option for morning travelers heading to Los Angeles. This flight, operated by a Boeing 787-900, showcases JAL's Sky Suite III business class, designed with comfort and a sense of spaciousness in mind. The 1-2-1 seat configuration is a key feature, ensuring every passenger enjoys direct aisle access. With 44 seats in the cabin, the Sky Suite III creates a feeling of openness and allows for comfortable journeys.

The seats, of course, lie flat, so getting some rest during the flight isn't a problem. JAL has always been known for its quality of service and meals, and Sky Suite III is no exception. The emphasis here is on Japanese cuisine, utilizing seasonal ingredients, a common theme with many Japanese carriers lately. Though, it remains to be seen how universally appealing this is for all travelers.

It's also worth noting the changes in JAL's mileage program, making it harder to book award travel using miles. Award pricing has fluctuated in the past, but recently, it seems there are more hurdles to access the Sky Suite III on award flights. For many, this could change the way they strategize their travel plans when considering miles.


All things considered, if you value a comfortable, spacious, and well-serviced business class cabin departing Tokyo in the morning, JAL's Sky Suite III on JL12 is certainly worthy of consideration when flying to Los Angeles. It's a strong contender in the market, and the emphasis on Japanese culinary traditions could be an alluring draw for certain travelers.

JAL's Sky Suite III, featured on the JL12 morning departure from Narita (NRT) at 10:15 AM, provides a compelling option for travelers heading to Los Angeles. This Boeing 787-9 flight leverages the jet stream to potentially shave valuable minutes off the travel time, a factor likely influenced by considerations of both fuel efficiency and operational reliability. It's interesting to think how route optimization algorithms factor in weather patterns and predicted winds to select the best flight path for maximum time and fuel savings.

The Sky Suite III cabin boasts 44 business class seats in a 1-2-1 reverse herringbone layout. This design emphasizes individual space and ensures every passenger has direct access to the aisle, eliminating the need to climb over others. While the overall space is generous, the question of how this layout compares to other seating arrangements on aircraft remains an area of interest. The seats also convert into fully flat beds, measuring 78 inches long, a feature directly related to sleep quality during a long-haul flight. Engineers studying the ergonomics of seating and sleep cycles during long flights have found that seat length and comfort play a large role in overall passenger well-being.

The Boeing 787-9's advanced air filtration system is noteworthy, constantly cycling fresh air into the cabin. It's fascinating how these advanced filtration systems work in practice, reducing potential allergen exposures during the flight. The question of how this impacts a person's immune system while traveling is something that I think bears more research.

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan has recently doubled the mileage requirement for booking a business class ticket on this route. This trend seems to be reflecting a wider shift in airline strategies related to their loyalty programs and how they leverage partnerships. I wonder what future changes in program structures we will see in the coming years. How does JAL's program compare to other similar alliances in terms of overall benefit to the customer?

JAL's onboard dining is a notable element, with an emphasis on seasonal and regional Japanese cuisine. Research shows a correlation between fresher meals and passenger satisfaction, likely related to a perception of better quality. There are definite connections here to the wider idea of culinary arts and trends in air travel. It's interesting to consider if the emphasis on Japanese food alone satisfies the desires of the diverse range of travelers on the route.

The Sky Suite III also utilizes a well-designed in-flight entertainment system. This type of entertainment is an essential component in keeping travelers engaged and comfortable during long-haul flights, and JAL appears to have applied some human factors engineering principles to the interface, to make the system easy to use. However, it remains to be seen if JAL's choices are among the best options available.


Boeing 787s are known for their noise reduction technology, reducing the overall noise level during flight. This can create a better and more relaxed passenger experience. How significant are the improvements in noise levels on the 787 versus the past generation of jets?

The 1-2-1 configuration also provides for a more fluid boarding and disembarking process. Research into cabin design indicates a positive relationship between direct aisle access and passenger flow rate. It's interesting to consider whether there are optimal configurations for various aircraft and passenger loads, and how those change with the introduction of newer types of seating.


The availability of Wi-Fi during the flight caters to a growing demand for internet access. How much use do passengers make of it, and how does that impact overall experience? We're all online almost all the time, and it is curious how this influences people's needs when they're also in confined spaces like planes for so long.

Lastly, JAL's Narita lounges are designed to prioritize passenger comfort and traffic flow. Studies on airport and lounge design show a relationship between layout and passenger satisfaction. It's worth analyzing how this flows into the overall quality of the travel experience. I wonder what other ways to optimize this pre-flight experience are possible.


JL12 offers a blend of factors aiming for a high-quality passenger experience, yet like all complex systems, there's room for continuous refinement and adjustments. It's interesting to ponder how technology and evolving research will continue to impact the future of business class travel.

Top 7 Business Class Routes from Tokyo to Los Angeles Comparing ANA's 'The Room' vs JAL's Sky Suite III (2024 Review) - ANA The Room NH102 Early Morning Flight from HND at 00 -05

ANA's NH102, departing from Haneda (HND) at 00:05, is an interesting choice for travelers wanting to leave Tokyo late at night and head to Washington Dulles (IAD). It's a good example of ANA's "The Room" business class, offering a private, luxurious experience. The suites, created by architect Kengo Kuma, have an emphasis on wood and provide a sense of seclusion with individual doors, making for a more comfortable long-haul flight. The flight is known to be fairly punctual, which is helpful, though like all flights, occasional minor delays do happen. It's a reminder to be aware of any potential schedule changes when planning a trip. With the competitive landscape of business class options improving across many airlines on transpacific routes, it's worth considering whether ANA's "The Room" is still the best value compared to newer offerings. While it still stands out with its unique design, it's important to see if ANA can keep up with passenger expectations and the constantly changing world of premium cabin options.

ANA's NH102, departing from Haneda (HND) at 00:05, presents an interesting case study in early morning transpacific travel. This flight potentially allows passengers to arrive in Washington D.C. (IAD) in the early morning hours. The idea is that this aligns with ideal circadian rhythms, which research suggests can help reduce the effects of jet lag. This early departure time is a point of interest for travelers wanting to optimize their arrival experience.


The "The Room" business class on this flight features a generous 24-inch high-definition screen. That is a notable size and should be more than enough for most people to enjoy the extensive on-demand entertainment options during a 12.5-hour flight. It will be interesting to see how the quality of the display holds up against other comparable aircraft.


The aircraft of choice, the Boeing 777-300ER, has a reputation for its efficiency in terms of fuel consumption. This is a relevant factor for the airline's cost structure, which potentially could lead to competitive ticket prices, especially considering that business class tickets on long-haul routes can be expensive.


The "The Room" is a great example of how aircraft cabin designs can integrate privacy and a sense of individual space. While the enclosed suites aren't completely separate from the rest of the cabin, the design seems intended to minimize the disturbance that might be caused by fellow passengers. However, one might question how practical and effective those suites truly are in the long run.


ANA has changed its mileage program, which leads to fluctuating redemptions for NH102. It highlights the dynamic nature of airline loyalty programs. These changes are worth watching as travelers might need to alter their points-earning and -spending strategies to make the most of their travel experiences. How exactly that would impact the average business traveler remains unclear.


The Boeing 777-300ER has advanced engineering that benefits passengers. For instance, noise-reduction technology could contribute to a more relaxing atmosphere, which is especially beneficial during longer flights. Engineers have shown that minimizing distractions like loud engine noise can improve sleep and relaxation.


Pre-flight experience is a notable element. Travelers on NH102 can access the ANA Lounge at HND, which offers amenities like shower facilities and a fine dining experience. How the quality of these airport lounges influences a traveler’s stress level is worth further investigation. There are studies indicating that well-designed lounges can significantly help mitigate anxiety and create a more comfortable start to the journey.


Culinary focus is another key aspect of ANA's service on this route. Japanese cuisine and seasonality are emphasized in the onboard dining experience. Research shows that high-quality meals can be a critical element of passenger satisfaction, especially in the context of long-haul flights. How much this focus on Japanese cuisine caters to the overall diversity of its passengers on this route remains to be seen.


The cost of reward flights can be unpredictable in the airline business. ANA, in a recent change, has increased the cost of reward tickets for this route. This illustrates the frequent alterations in mileage programs, forcing passengers to continuously adapt their award travel strategies to find the best deal. This kind of instability potentially impacts the overall experience for people who prefer booking with miles, and some will likely prefer not to depend on award tickets as much.


The self-service bars in the "The Room" are an innovative idea and a testament to the trends in passenger preferences and behavior during travel. This highlights a growing desire for autonomy and flexibility over personal refreshment choices on long-haul flights. Studies on passenger behavior show a preference for more personal control during the travel experience, and this feature could potentially improve satisfaction. However, the service implications need to be analyzed carefully, as it might lead to an increase in demand on other staff members to address service inquiries in new ways.



The NH102 flight is, in many ways, a case study in the complexities of modern air travel. Every aspect, from the scheduling and departure time to the aircraft's advanced technology and cabin design features, represents design choices meant to create a quality experience. How well it accomplishes this goal, particularly in the face of changing traveler preferences and airline industry challenges, is an ongoing point of interest.

Top 7 Business Class Routes from Tokyo to Los Angeles Comparing ANA's 'The Room' vs JAL's Sky Suite III (2024 Review) - JAL Sky Suite III JL60 Mid-Day Flight from HND at 12 -30

JAL's JL60 flight departing from Haneda (HND) at 12:30 PM provides a midday option for those seeking business class travel to Los Angeles. This flight is a prime example of JAL's Sky Suite III product, which utilizes Zodiac Aires seats in a reverse herringbone layout, a design aiming for better passenger density compared to some other airlines. The 1-2-1 configuration gives every passenger direct aisle access, a plus for many travelers. The seats themselves fully recline into flat beds, a feature critical for comfort on a roughly 10-hour flight.

JAL, like other Japanese carriers, places a strong emphasis on their culinary offerings in business class. You can expect high-quality meal service throughout the flight, emphasizing seasonal, Japanese-inspired dishes. While the overall service level is often praised by passengers, the cost of using miles to book has seen a significant jump. It appears to be increasingly difficult to snag a Sky Suite III award ticket using miles.

This flight, when compared to ANA's "The Room," raises interesting questions regarding which cabin design offers the best passenger experience. While both airlines focus on a premium product, subtle differences in seat design and the approach to food service might play a bigger role in passenger preference than initially thought. It's worth noting how these various design choices affect the overall passenger experience.

JAL's JL60, a midday flight departing Haneda (HND) at 12:30 PM, is timed to align with Los Angeles's (LAX) afternoon arrival slots. This could reduce delays on the ground, a goal in any airline's operational efficiency strategy.

The aircraft, a Boeing 787-9, utilizes advanced composite materials to make it lighter, enhancing fuel efficiency and decreasing noise inside the cabin. This has direct consequences on how comfortable passengers are on this long-distance journey.

JAL's focus on the dining experience incorporates elements of traditional Japanese cooking, including seasonal ingredients. Research suggests this sort of approach positively influences passengers' general feeling about their experience, suggesting that thoughtful food choices on a flight matter.

The in-flight entertainment systems in JAL's Sky Suite III have high-definition screens that are designed to reduce eye strain during extended viewing. There are continuing studies into how best to engineer aircraft cabin spaces, which is why entertainment systems are constantly updated to improve how easy they are to use over a long flight.

Sky Suite III travelers benefit from priority baggage handling. It's a system that appears to be based on the understanding that quicker luggage handling positively impacts overall satisfaction with a trip.

The 787-9 is equipped with advanced noise-reducing technology, which can cut down the sound level in the cabin by a substantial amount. Research shows that less noise can help people sleep better and relax more when traveling a long way.

Recent adjustments to the mileage programs mean it now costs more to book a business class ticket. This is part of a larger shift in how airlines manage revenue, as evident in various mileage programs. Studying loyalty programs makes it clear how variable mileage needs affect consumer choices regarding earning and spending points for flights.

The 1-2-1 seat arrangement in the Sky Suite III aims to improve passenger flow in the cabin. Studies on passenger movement during boarding and deplaning suggest that direct aisle access can improve traffic flow and potentially make the flight more comfortable.

The air filtration systems in the 787-9 are designed to change cabin air more regularly than older systems, which could limit the transmission of airborne particles. Improved air quality on board is directly related to passenger health and comfort, particularly on longer flights.

JAL's airport lounges are carefully laid out with passenger well-being in mind. Studies have indicated that the arrangement of space in a lounge significantly impacts how stressed travelers are. A well-structured airport lounge can reduce pre-flight anxiety and therefore impact the overall impression of a flight.


While JL60 may seem to offer many benefits for those seeking a business class flight from Tokyo to Los Angeles, it is, as with any system, subject to further refinements and improvements. It's interesting to consider how research and technology will continue to transform the business class experience in the future.