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Airline: Japan Airlines
Flight Number: JL745
Route: NRT-MNL
Class: Business Class
Aircraft: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
Registration: JA843J
Delivered: January 2016
Flight Duration: 4 hours 5 minutes
Distance: 1,893 Miles
Overall Impression:
Discovering Japan Airlines’ upgraded Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner for their daily flights from Tokyo Narita and Haneda to Manila was a delightful surprise. The transition from their old (but well-maintained) 767-300s for this route was great news. I was even more excited to find out that this flight was being operated by the JAL Sky Suite business class product, instead of the old Shell Flat Neo seats. Join me as we embark on a journey together, exploring the new heights of comfort and service offered by JAL’s Business Class.
What I liked:
JAL First Class Lounge at Narita Airport: Tucked away in Narita Airport Terminal 2 is the exquisite JAL First Class Lounge, a sanctuary awaiting travelers with either a First Class ticket or Oneworld Emerald status. From a tantalizing sushi bar to an abundance of seating options, including a dedicated room for smokers, this lounge raises the bar for pre-flight relaxation and enjoyment.
Culinary Delights: Onboard catering exceeded expectations, particularly for aficionados of Japanese cuisine. Opting for the teishoku dinner set proved to be a culinary adventure, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. Meanwhile, my companion relished their impeccably prepared Western meal, showcasing JAL’s commitment to culinary excellence at 30,000 feet.
The onboard service: Throughout the flight, the cabin crew demonstrated professionalism and finesse in their service delivery. While the warmth characteristic of some Asian carriers might have been subtle, the crew’s attentiveness and responsiveness left a lasting impression. From proactive drink refills to courteous responses to requests, the service upheld JAL’s reputation for excellence. Not to mention the crew kept the lavatories spotless.
What I didn’t like:
In-Flight Entertainment: Despite the abundance of entertainment options, navigating the JAL Magic VI Entertainment system proved cumbersome. The lack of a user-friendly interface for browsing content detracted from the overall experience, necessitating reliance on a wired touchscreen remote. However, the diverse selection of movies, TV shows, and games partially compensated for this inconvenience.
Cabin Temperature: JAL’s tendency towards warmer cabin temperatures might not suit every traveler’s preferences. As someone who favors a cooler environment conducive to restful sleep, I found the cabin temperature slightly discomforting. Additionally, the absence of personal air nozzles in the business class section further limited control over individual comfort levels.
It was OK…I guess:
Business Class Seats: While JAL’s Sky Suite seats on the 787 are arranged in a snug 2-2-2 configuration, they surprisingly deliver impressive comfort for both unwinding and getting some shut-eye. What’s particularly notable is that each seat offers direct access to the aisle, which truly enhances the overall experience.
Bottom Line:
In summary, Japan Airlines’ upgrade to the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner for Tokyo to Manila flights introduces a new level of comfort and service, especially in business class. The JAL Sky Suite offers a luxurious experience complemented by access to the exquisite JAL First Class Lounge at Narita Airport. While some minor issues like the in-flight entertainment and cabin temperature may arise, overall, flying with JAL promises a sophisticated journey with delightful cuisine and attentive service, perfect for travelers seeking a premium travel experience.
TravelingFoody.com 