[Click above for the video review.]
Airline: Japan Airlines
Flight Number: JL11
Route: DFW-HND
Class: Business Class
Aircraft: Airbus A350-1000
Registration: JA08WJ
Delivered: December 2024
Flight Duration: 12 hours 15 minutes
Distance: 6,456 Miles
Overall impression:
When it comes to premium air travel, Japan Airlines (JAL) consistently sets the bar high—and our recent experience in their business class was no exception. Having previously flown in the original Sky Suite (Apex Suite seat), we were especially excited to experience JAL’s latest business class product aboard the Airbus A350-1000.
From the moment we boarded, the onboard service reflected the essence of Japan’s renowned spirit of hospitality. The new business class seats offered an impressive blend of comfort and privacy, making the 12-hour journey to Tokyo feel like a breeze.
We were also pleasantly surprised by the in-flight dining. Despite some initial doubts about catering from DFW, each meal exceeded expectations—beautifully plated and full of rich, satisfying flavors.
The Tokyo-based crew brought a perfect balance of efficiency and warmth to their service. Though it was clear they were still becoming familiar with the new galley and cabin setup, their attentiveness and friendly demeanor never faltered.
What I liked:
The American Airlines Flagship Lounge at DFW: As part of our business class ticket, we were welcome to enter to the American Airlines Flagship Lounge, which provided a comfortable and well-appointed space to relax before boarding.
During our visit, there was no shortage of seating, and the atmosphere remained calm and spacious. The buffet offered a generous variety of dishes, catering to different palates, while the self-serve wine and spirits bar added a nice touch of flexibility for those wanting to unwind.
We also appreciated the attentive lounge staff, who efficiently cleared dishes and kept the space tidy. For travelers looking to freshen up pre-flight, the lounge also offers clean, private shower suites—another welcome amenity for long-haul flyers.
The Seats: One of the standout features of JAL’s new A350-1000 is its business class cabin, featuring 54 Safran Unity suites arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration. Every passenger enjoys direct aisle access—no awkward maneuvering required. From the moment we settled into our seats 3K and 4K, it was clear this wasn’t just an upgrade—it was an entirely elevated experience in both comfort and privacy. Each suite feels like your own little cocoon in the sky, complete with a sliding door, clever storage solutions, and plenty of space to stretch out and relax.
The 24-inch 4K screen was impressively sharp, and paired with wireless charging and intuitive storage, the setup was equally suited for productivity or pure downtime. Whether I was watching a film, working, or simply enjoying the view from 35,000 feet, the space adapted effortlessly.
If I had one minor critique, it’s that the seat itself leaned a little firm and could benefit from a bit more cushioning. Still, that’s a small trade-off in an otherwise stellar design. Overall, this new suite strikes a near-perfect balance of luxury and functionality—and easily ranks among the best business class seats I’ve had the pleasure of flying.
The in-flight Dining: JAL’s business class dining experience is nothing short of exceptional. For fans of Japanese cuisine—and even those less familiar—the onboard catering is a clear highlight. Each dish, whether part of the colorfully presented Japanese set or the thoughtfully curated Western menu, showcased culinary finesse at 35,000 feet.
Adding to the appeal is JAL’s dine-on-demand concept, available after the initial meal service. This flexible approach allows passengers to enjoy a range of mid-flight and pre-arrival dishes at their convenience.
And for those in need of a quick refreshment, the self-serve snack bar near the galley offered a satisfying selection of light snacks and beverages.
The Onboard Service: While there was a slight language barrier at times and the crew was clearly still adjusting to the nuances of the new aircraft, the flight attendants delivered a level of service that truly embodied omotenashi—the hallmark of Japanese hospitality. Their refined attentiveness, proactive stance, and consistently immaculate upkeep of the cabin and lavatories created an atmosphere of calm, care, and comfort throughout the journey.
What I didn’t like:
Cabin Temperature: One aspect that stood out—though not necessarily in the best way—was the cabin temperature. JAL has a known tendency to keep their cabins on the warmer side, and this flight was no exception. While some travelers might find it comfortably cozy, I personally prefer a cooler environment, especially on long-haul flights where getting quality sleep is key. The lack of individual air vents made it tough to regulate, and at times, the warmth felt a bit stifling.
It was OK…I guess:
The In-Flight Entertainment: JAL’s A350-1000 in-flight entertainment system is a significant step up from its previous generation. The high-resolution screen is both generously sized and easy to navigate, making for a user-friendly experience right from the start. A decent noise-canceling headphones were also provided with helps block out the noise during the flight. As an extra bonus, the seats are also fitted with built-in headrest speakers and bluetooth connectivity to your own personal wireless headphones.
While the content library may not rival the extensive offerings of carriers like Qatar Airways or Emirates, JAL still provides a well-rounded selection of movies, TV shows, audio programs, games, and even live TV. The system also features a sleek, interactive moving map and three external camera views—an aviation geek’s dream.
Onboard Amenities: JAL’s business class amenities hit all the right notes. Each seat came stocked with an amenity kit that included practical extras like a phone charger and stand—small details that make a big difference. Slippers, a full-size pillow, a cozy duvet, and a mattress pad were also provided, ensuring a comfortable rest during the flight. For those wanting to settle in even more, JAL offered a lightweight sleeper suit, which was a welcome touch for a long-haul journey.
True to JAL’s high standards, the lavatories which are fitted with Toto Bidets were spotless throughout the flight and thoughtfully stocked with essentials like toothbrushes, mouthwash, and additional toiletries.
Bottom Line:
Japan Airlines’ new business class on the A350-1000 is a thoughtfully designed and impressively executed product that blends comfort, privacy, and elegance with signature Japanese hospitality. From the sleek, high-tech suites and elevated dining to the attentive service and well-considered amenities, the experience feels premium from start to finish. While a warmer cabin and slightly firm seat may not suit every traveler’s preference, these are minor trade-offs in an otherwise top-tier offering. All in all, JAL’s A350-1000 business class easily earns its place among the world’s best—and is a fantastic way to travel to Japan in style and comfort.
TravelingFoody.com 