I spent 10 hours in Japan Airlines' retro 'JAL Suite' first-class cabin. These 4 things surprised me the most.
A traveler shares their positive experience flying in Japan Airlines' older 'JAL Suite' first-class cabin, noting that its comfort and service still rival modern luxury offerings. Despite the cabin's age, the author found the open layout and high-quality amenities to be superior to many newer, pod-style suites.
Why it matters
The review highlights how legacy airline products can maintain high value and customer satisfaction even as the industry shifts toward newer technology.
I flew in Japan Airlines' retro "JAL Suite" with my wife and toddler for 10 hours and it was one of my favorite flights yet. Courtesy of T.J. Dunn I flew first class on Japan Airlines' "JAL Suite" from Sydney to Tokyo in January 2026. The more than a decade-old cabin was surprisingly comfortable with great amenities. The 13-course meal and top-shelf Champagne and whisky were outstanding. I've experienced some of the world's most luxurious premium cabins as airlines race to pack in ever more cutting-edge amenities at 35,000 feet. But after flying Japan Airlines' retro flagship first-class cabin, I'm convinced that old-school luxury can still compete. My family of three flew the airline's "JAL Suite" for 10 hours from Sydney to Tokyo in January 2026.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in