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Airline: Japan Airlines
Flight Number: JL45
Route: HND-CDG
Class: Business Class
Aircraft: Airbus A350-1000
Registration: JA05WJ
Delivered: August 2024
Flight Duration: 12 hours 35 minutes
Distance: 6,038 Miles
Overall impression:
When it comes to premium air travel, Japan Airlines (JAL) consistently sets a high bar—and our recent business class experience was no exception. Having flown the original Sky Suite (Apex Suite) and its various iterations, we were especially excited to experience JAL’s latest business class product aboard the Airbus A350-1000.
From the lounge all the way through to arrival, JAL delivered a service experience that truly reflects Japan’s renowned spirit of hospitality. The new business class suites offer an excellent balance of comfort and privacy, turning what could have been a long 12-hour journey to Paris into a genuinely enjoyable experience.
Catering out of Tokyo was another highlight. Each meal was beautifully presented and packed with rich, satisfying flavors—exactly what you’d expect from JAL.
The Tokyo-based crew struck a great balance between efficiency and warmth. While it was clear they were still getting familiar with the new aircraft and galley setup, their attentiveness and friendly demeanor never wavered.
What I liked:
The JAL First Class Lounge in Haneda – Thanks to our oneworld Emerald status, we had access to the JAL First Class Lounge Haneda, which remains one of my favorite lounges anywhere. From the spacious seating—including those fantastic massage chairs—to the freshly prepared Japanese dishes, everything here feels thoughtful and premium. It’s easily a must-visit when passing through Haneda.
The Seats – One of the biggest highlights of JAL’s A350-1000 is its business class cabin, featuring 54 Safran Unity suites in a 1-2-1 configuration, all with direct aisle access. From the moment we settled into seats 5A and 6A, it was clear this was more than just an upgrade—it’s a completely elevated experience.
Each suite feels like a private space, complete with a sliding door, smart storage, and plenty of room to stretch out. The 24-inch 4K screen is crisp and immersive, and features like wireless charging, and well-designed storage make the space equally suited for work or relaxation.
If there’s one minor downside, it’s that the seat padding feels a bit firm and could use a touch more cushioning. Also missing are the personal air nozzles. Still, that’s a small trade-off for what is otherwise one of the best business class seats currently flying.
The in-flight Dining – JAL’s business class dining is simply outstanding. Whether you opt for the beautifully presented Japanese set or the thoughtfully curated Western menu, the quality and attention to detail really shine through.
Western Meal:
Japanese Meal:
The dine-on-demand concept is another big plus, allowing you to eat when you want after the initial service.
There’s also a self-serve snack area near the galley with a selection of light snacks—perfect for a mid-flight pick-me-up.
The Onboard Service – Despite a slight language barrier at times and the crew still adjusting to the new aircraft, the service truly embodied omotenashi. The crew offered pre-departure beverages upon boarding and hot towels right after takeoff. The flight attendants we interacted with were pleasant, attentive, and professional during the meal and beverage services. It created a calm, polished, and consistently comfortable atmosphere throughout the flight.
What I didn’t like:
Cabin Temperature – One aspect that stood out—though not in the best way—was the cabin temperature. Japan Airlines tends to keep cabins on the warmer side, and this flight was no exception. While some may find it cozy, I personally prefer a cooler environment, especially on long-haul flights. Without individual air vents, it was difficult to adjust, and at times the cabin felt a bit too warm for comfort.
It was OK…I guess:
The In-Flight Entertainment – The A350-1000’s IFE system is a big improvement over previous generations. The screen is large, sharp, and easy to use, and the provided noise-canceling headphones do a decent job of reducing cabin noise. Features like Bluetooth connectivity and built-in headrest speakers are nice modern touches.
While the content library isn’t quite as extensive as airlines like Qatar Airways or Emirates, it still offers a solid mix of movies, TV shows, music, games, and live TV. The moving map and external cameras are also great additions—especially if you enjoy following the flight.
The Onboard Amenities – JAL’s business class amenities are well thought out and practical. Each seat includes an amenity kit with useful extras like a phone stand and charger. Slippers, a full-size pillow, duvet, and mattress pad are all provided, making it easy to get comfortable.
A lightweight sleeper suit is also offered, which is a welcome addition on a long-haul flight. As expected from JAL, the lavatories—equipped with Toto bidets—were spotless throughout and well stocked with essentials.
Bottom Line:
This flight with Japan Airlines showcases exactly why the airline remains one of the best in the world. The new A350-1000 business class suite is a major step forward, offering an outstanding mix of privacy, comfort, and thoughtful design. Add in exceptional dining and genuinely warm, attentive service, and you have a product that’s hard to fault. Minor drawbacks—like the warmer cabin temperature and a slightly less extensive IFE library—do little to detract from what is ultimately a top-tier business class experience and one of the best ways to travel the globe.
TravelingFoody.com 