All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Japan Airlines (JAL) are Japan’s two leading airlines, known around the world for their amazing service and high quality. Both airlines have earned global recognition for doing things the right way, but how do you choose between them?
This article provides a detailed comparison of ANA and JAL, covering everything from their route networks and loyalty programs to the in-flight experience. We’ll break down the differences (and similarities) between ANA and JAL to help you make the best decision for your next trip.
It’s important to note that both airlines are fantastic and industry-leading. Comparing them is a bit like splitting hairs. Which airline is “better” really depends on your individual needs and preferences. We’ll look at different classes of service, fleet options, domestic flights, and even offer tips for finding the best deals.
Route Networks and Destinations: Where Do They Fly?
Both ANA and JAL offer extensive route networks, connecting Japan to destinations around the globe.
ANA’s Route Network
ANA flies to 43 international destinations in 22 countries. Key international destinations include eight cities in the U.S. In addition to popular routes, ANA strategically operates flights to smaller, less-traveled cities, giving travelers more choices.
JAL’s Route Network
JAL serves 39 international destinations in 21 countries. The airline has a strong presence in North America, flying to 10 cities in the U.S. JAL also operates routes to unique destinations, catering to both business and leisure travelers.
Comparison
While both airlines offer similar international flight networks, ANA has a slightly larger worldwide network, while JAL operates to more U.S. destinations. Your choice might depend on where you’re going and which airline offers the most convenient routing.
Travel Credit Card Availability and Loyalty Programs
Both ANA and JAL offer credit cards in partnership with major financial institutions, but neither airline has a particularly compelling U.S. credit card for the average traveler.
Credit Card Partnerships
- ANA partners with American Express, offering the ANA Card U.S.A., which earns 1 mile per dollar spent.
- JAL partners with Marriott Bonvoy, offering the JAL USA Card, which earns 1 mile per $2 spent on the basic card and 1 mile per $1 spent on premium rewards cards.
Loyalty Programs
Both airlines also have loyalty programs designed to reward frequent flyers.
- The ANA Mileage Club has some attractive features, but also some drawbacks. According to NerdWallet, ANA Mileage Club miles are worth about 2.8 cents per mile. For example, a round-trip business class ticket between North America and Japan will set you back 75,000 miles.
- Japan Airlines Mileage Bank miles are valuable for multi-destination hops and long-haul premium cabin awards with partners. As an example, a round-trip business class flight from NYC to Dubai costs 110,000 miles.
Overall, NerdWallet’s analysis suggests that ANA Mileage Club miles are slightly more valuable than JAL Mileage Bank miles.
Cabin Class Comparison: Business Class
Let’s take a look at what you can expect when flying business class on ANA and JAL.
Seat
ANA tends to push the envelope with its seating options, with a focus on innovation. For example, ANA’s “The Room” business class seat offers a 1-2-1 configuration, which means everyone has aisle access.
JAL’s APEX Suite, found on their 787 and 777 aircraft, comes in a 2-2-2 or 2-3-2 seat configuration. You’ll want to consider your priorities when assessing seat comfort, privacy, and the amenities offered with each seat.
Food and Drink
Both ANA and JAL offer high-quality food and beverage options in business class, although some travelers give JAL a slight edge in this category. ANA is known for its creative and innovative cuisine.
Service
ANA is particularly known for its noteworthy service. But both airlines train their cabin crews to offer exceptional service to all passengers.
Lounges
Both ANA and JAL offer excellent ground experiences, including access to airport lounges. Depending on your itinerary and airline status, you may be able to visit lounges such as the Sakura Lounge, ANA Lounge, or ANA Suite Lounge.
Cabin Class Comparison: Economy Class
Even if you’re not flying first class, you can still have a pleasant trip. Let’s take a look at what you can expect in economy class on both airlines.
Seats
JAL’s Sky Wider seats have been singled out as a high point in economy class. ANA’s economy class seats have a pitch of 34 inches, which is pretty standard. However, JAL uses just eight seats per row on their Boeing 787 aircraft, which means more space for everyone.
When it comes to seat comfort and legroom, JAL seems to have a slight edge.
Food
Both airlines have a reputation for high-quality food, even in economy class. You can expect tasty and well-prepared meals on both ANA and JAL, and both offer complimentary snacks and drinks throughout the flight.
Service
Both ANA and JAL are known for providing exceptional service, even to those seated in economy. Expect attentive and polite cabin crew members on both airlines, ready to assist with any needs you might have.
Other Classes of Service
Both ANA and JAL offer First Class on select routes, with luxurious seating, exclusive lounges, and elevated dining experiences. However, availability is limited.
Premium Economy offers a step up from standard economy, with wider seats, more legroom, and enhanced amenities. While both airlines provide Premium Economy, subtle differences exist in seat design and service offerings. Business class, however, is often considered the best value for money, balancing comfort and price more effectively than First or Premium Economy.
Fleet Comparison
Both ANA and JAL operate a mix of aircraft for international and domestic routes, but there are some key differences.
ANA uses Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners and Airbus A380s on some of its international routes. It’s also awaiting delivery of the new Boeing 777-9, though some analysts believe this plane may never actually fly. Of note, ANA operates a small fleet of A380s specifically for flights to Hawaii as of 2024.
JAL recently took delivery of the Airbus A350-1000 in late 2023, which many consider a superior option for international travel. JAL’s A350-1000 boasts a modern cabin design and the latest technology. While ANA’s planes are generally well-maintained, JAL’s A350-1000 gives it a slight edge in long-haul comfort.
Domestic Flights within Japan
Flying ANA or JAL within Japan is usually a great experience. Both airlines offer outstanding service, and the planes are typically clean and well-maintained.
On domestic routes, it’s hard to say that one airline is significantly better than the other. In fact, domestic flights are almost identical in terms of price and quality. The biggest difference is often availability: which airline flies the route you need on the day you want to travel?
Extra Fees and Add-ons
Both airlines charge extra fees for certain services. Here’s a quick comparison:
- Seat Selection: On discount economy tickets, ANA charges between $25 and $55 for standard seat selection. Japan Airlines only charges for extra-legroom exit row seats, which cost around $100 per flight segment.
- Baggage and Changes: It’s important to check each airline’s current baggage policies and change fees, as these can vary depending on the route and fare class.
Getting the best deals on ANA and JAL flights
Flights on Japanese airlines can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. Consider these strategies:
- Flights through Tokyo: Some of the best deals on ANA and JAL involve flying to Tokyo and then continuing on to Southeast Asia.
- Miles and points: Using miles is often the best way to fly ANA and JAL, especially if you’re hoping to fly first class or business class.
- E-mail updates: Sign up for e-mail updates from the airlines and travel providers.
- Flexibility: If possible, be flexible about where you fly from. It may be cheaper to fly out of a different North American or European airport.
How do ANA and JAL compare for in-flight experience?
Both ANA and JAL are known for providing an excellent in-flight experience, no matter which class you’re flying. Expect comfortable seating, a wide array of entertainment options, and all the amenities you need for a pleasant journey.
Interestingly, JAL’s economy class has been recognized as the “World’s Best” by some travel publications and organizations. While ANA also offers a great economy experience, JAL appears to have a slight edge in this category.
It’s All About What You Like
Choosing between ANA and JAL really comes down to what you’re looking for in a flight. There’s no single “best” airline for everyone. What matters most to you? Think about your priorities and consider what each airline offers before you book.
Putting It All Together
ANA and JAL offer similar quality, and both airlines go above and beyond to provide exceptional service. Choosing between them comes down to the small differences, and ultimately, your own priorities.
Both airlines have great safety records, comfortable seats, and extensive networks. JAL generally has a slight edge when it comes to onboard food and beverage, while ANA shines with its in-flight entertainment and superior airport lounges.
If pushed to pick a winner, ANA edges out JAL, primarily because its mileage program is slightly more valuable, especially for those who can take advantage of ANA’s partnership with American Express. But you can’t go wrong with either airline.
When deciding between ANA and JAL, think about what matters most to you, then book your flight with confidence.