Japan Airlines (JAL) has unveiled the details of its new Airbus A350-1000 aircraft and cabin interiors.
Scheduled to replace its longstanding flagship Boeing 777s after nearly two decades, this highly anticipated international service will debut on the Tokyo-New York route before the year’s end.
After that, the A350s will progressively replace existing 777s aircraft that operate the airline’s top international routes – which sadly means we’re unlikely to see them in the skies over Australia.
An Overview of Seating across Classes:
1. First Class: The Epitome of Luxury
- Seating Configuration: JAL offers an exclusive environment with just six suites, amplifying the sense of privacy and exclusivity. Each suite features individual doors – a first for JAL – which not only assures privacy but also crafts an open individual atmosphere, thanks to the removal of overhead storage compartments.
- Specifications:
- Type: Enclosed Private Suite with Door
- Seat Pitch: Approximately 211cm (83 in.)
- Bed Length: Maximum of approximately 203cm (80 in.)
- Individual Monitor Size: 43 in.
- Noteworthy Features:
- Three seating modes available: Sofa, Seat & Single Bed, or Double Bed.
- The world’s first headphone-free stereo system with built-in headrest speakers.
- Ample storage space for personal items within the suite.
2. Business Class: A Fusion of Comfort and Functionality
- Seating Configuration: With an increased capacity to 54 seats, spacing remains a priority, ensuring passengers a comfortable individual inflight experience. Each seat features doors for added privacy. Additionally, overhead compartments are thoughtfully placed only on the window side, maintaining an open and airy atmosphere.
- Specifications:
- Type: Enclosed Private Suite with Door
- Seat Pitch: Approximately 130cm (51 in.)
- Bed Length: Maximum of approximately 198cm (78 in.)
- Individual Monitor Size: 24 in.
- Noteworthy Features:
- Cushioned bed mode with ample foot area.
- Electric privacy partition for communication with co-travelers.
- Integrated headphone-free stereo and ample storage space.
3. Premium Economy Class: Redefining Class Comfort
- Seating Configuration: This cabin offers substantial privacy enhancements through larger partitions and is the world’s first Premium Economy Class to boast electrically operated reclining functionality.
- Specifications:
- Type: Fixed-back mechanism
- Seat Pitch: Approximately 107cm (42 in.)
- Individual Monitor Size: 16 in.
- Noteworthy Features:
- Large privacy partitions.
- Electric leg rest with horizontal adjustments.
- A significantly larger 16-inch 4K widescreen monitor compared to the previous model.
4. Economy Class: A Nod to Spacious Comfort
- Seating Configuration: Continuing its legacy of six consecutive SKYTRAX awards for “Best Economy Class Airline Seat”, JAL’s new economy seating prioritizes legroom and overall comfort.
- Specifications:
- Type: Reclining mechanism
- Seat Pitch: Approximately 84-86cm (33-34 in.)
- Individual Monitor Size: 13 in.
- Noteworthy Features:
- Spacious seating with a wide seat pitch.
- The industry-leading 13-inch 4K monitor in its class.
Inflight Entertainment
Passengers aboard the A350-1000 will be treated to Panasonic Avionics Corporation’s latest inflight entertainment system and Wi-Fi service.
The introduction of 4K monitors across all classes, paired with Bluetooth connectivity, ensures a premium viewing experience. Integration with the JAL Mobile App further personalizes this experience, allowing passengers to curate their favorites list.
Redefining the Dining Experience in the Skies
First Class and Business Class passengers can expect a renewed vegan and vegetarian menu, curated under the watchful eye of Chef Fumio Yonezawa.
For long-haul business travelers, a new service slated for spring 2024 will empower passengers to customize their inflight dining schedule.
Meanwhile, Premium Economy and Economy Class passengers can look forward to a revamped vegan and vegetarian menu, in addition to a new optional paid menu offering diverse culinary choices.
Enhanced Amenities
First and Business Class passengers will receive amenity kits adorned with artwork from Heralbony’s artists. In a move toward sustainability, the packaging will transition from petroleum-derived plastics to paper. As a special inaugural celebration, an exclusive “MISOKA” toothbrush, free from petroleum-derived plastic, will be provided for a limited period.
In Conclusion
The A350-1000 heralds a new era of luxury, comfort, and innovation for JAL’s international flights. Passengers on the Tokyo (Haneda) to New York (JFK) route are in for an experience that seamlessly marries Japanese aesthetics with modern conveniences, setting a new benchmark in global aviation.
To get news like this delivered straight to your inbox, subscribe to our newsletter: