Japan Airlines Premium Economy Review: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

Considering Japan Airlines Premium Economy for your next long-haul flight? Here’s an honest, detailed review based on a recent experience, covering seats, food, service, and whether the upgrade makes sense.

A Surprisingly Good Middle Ground.

I’ll be real—I used to think Premium Economy was just Economy with extra legroom and a fancier name. But after a 12-hour flight from LAX to Tokyo in Japan Airlines’ Premium Economy, I’m a convert. It’s not quite business class, but damn, it’s close.

If you’re on the fence about splurging (or using those hard-earned miles), here’s everything you need to know—the good, the meh, and the "why didn’t I do this sooner?" moments.

Japan Airlines Premium Economy Review: Seat Comfort & Cabin Layout

Let’s start with the biggest sell: the seat. Japan Airlines’ Premium Economy cabin is laid out in a 2-3-2 configuration on their 787 Dreamliners, which means no middle seat if you’re in a pair. Win.

The seats are 19.2 inches wide with a 38-inch pitch—way roomier than the 31 inches in Economy. You also get a legit recline (not just a sad tilt), a footrest, and a calf rest. For a tall guy like me (6’2"), that extra space was a game-changer. No more knee-crushing or awkward elbow battles with strangers.

Pro tip: If you’re flying solo, aim for the window seats in the smaller 2-seat sections. Fewer neighbors = fewer disturbances.

Food & Drinks: A Step Up (But Not Quite Business Class)

The meal service in Japan Airlines Premium Economy is where you really feel the upgrade. You get an actual menu (not just a "chicken or pasta?" toss from a cart), and the presentation is sleek—real glassware, metal cutlery, and proper trays.

I had the Japanese meal option (always go local on JAL—their Western dishes can be hit or miss). The miso-glazed cod was legit delicious, and the sake pairing? Chef’s kiss. That said, don’t expect the multi-course spreads of business class. Portions are decent, but I still snagged an extra snack from the galley later.

One gripe: The wine selection is just okay. If you’re a wine snob, bring your own or stick to cocktails.

Also read: 10 Japan Food Gifts You Must Bring Home: Introduce the Authentic Flavors of Japan to Your Home!

Service: Polished, But Not Overbearing

Japan Airlines’ flight attendants are effortlessly polished—friendly without being fake, attentive but not hovering. They remembered my drink preference after the first round, which was a nice touch.

That said, don’t expect business-class-level pampering. You won’t get addressed by name or receive a hot towel every hour. But for the price difference, I wasn’t complaining.

Also read: Best Airlines to Fly to Japan from Various Countries

Entertainment & Amenities: Solid but Not Flashy

The 12-inch IFE screen is crisp, and the noise-canceling headphones they hand out are decent (though I still used my AirPods Pro). The movie selection was solid—new-ish Hollywood flicks, Japanese cinema, and even some binge-worthy TV shows.

Amenity kits are basic: socks, eye mask, toothbrush. No fancy creams or lip balms like in business, but hey, it’s Premium Economy.

Was It Worth It? The Verdict

Here’s the deal: If you’re flying long-haul and can swing the extra
300
–
300–500 (or 20,000–30,000 miles), Japan Airlines Premium Economy is a no-brainer. The extra space, better food, and quieter cabin make a huge difference when you’re in the air for half a day.

But if you’re on a tight budget or only flying a short hop, stick with Economy. The gap between Premium Economy and Business Class is still way bigger than the one between Economy and Premium.

Final Tips for Booking Japan Airlines Premium Economy

• Use Miles: JAL’s Mileage Bank often has good availability for Premium Economy awards.
• Pre-Order Meals: Their Japanese options book out fast. Reserve yours online early.
• Check Aircraft: Avoid older 777s—their Premium Economy cabins aren’t as modern as the 787s.

So, would I fly Japan Airlines Premium Economy again? Absolutely. It’s the sweet spot between comfort and cost—and for a long flight, that’s worth every penny.

Also read other reviews about Japan Airline.