We analyze the business class products of ANA and Japan Airlines, comparing the revolutionary 'The Room' against JAL's Apex Suites.
Business class has become the primary battleground for global carriers, particularly on transpacific routes where sleep and productivity are paramount. For the Japanese flag carriers, this has resulted in two of the most impressive products in the sky. While first class focuses on decadence, business class focuses on the optimization of space. Our team has spent extensive time in both environments to determine which carrier offers the more seamless transition between time zones.
ANA made headlines with the introduction of 'The Room'. It is, quite simply, one of the widest business class seats in existence. Based on a staggered, forward-and-backward facing layout, it offers a sliding door that provides a level of privacy previously reserved for first class. The sheer width of the seat allows for a residential feel—one can sit cross-legged or lounge in a way that most airplane seats do not permit.
Japan Airlines utilizes the Apex Suite, marketed as the 'JAL Sky Suite'. While it lacks the closing doors of ANA’s newest product, it features a clever staggered configuration that ensures every passenger has direct aisle access and remarkable privacy via a retractable divider. The seat is narrower than ANA’s, but we find the length and the cushioning to be superior for taller travelers. The Apex Suite feels more like a cozy cocoon, whereas 'The Room' feels like a miniature studio apartment.
Japanese service is characterized by its invisibility; things happen without the need for a request. In business class, ANA tends to be highly efficient. The crew moves with a brisk, professional energy that favors the business traveler on a tight schedule.
JAL’s service is often perceived as slightly warmer and more rhythmic. There is a cadence to the meal service that feels less hurried. We have noted that JAL flight attendants often take the time to offer more detailed descriptions of the sake pairings and the provenance of the ingredients. For those seeking a restorative journey, JAL’s approach may feel more nurturing.
Both airlines offer exceptional dining. ANA’s business class menu frequently features collaborations with international chefs, and their 'Buy-on-Board' or 'Order-at-Any-Time' snack menu is diverse, featuring high-quality ramen and light bites.
JAL’s strengths lie in their 'BEDD' sky-dining program. The Japanese option usually consists of several small dishes served in a bento-style box followed by a main course. The presentation is impeccable. Regarding amenities, JAL works with brands like Maison Kitsuné for their kits, while ANA has partnered with Globe-Trotter. Both provide high-quality skincare, but JAL’s choice of a steam eye mask in their kits is a small, thoughtful touch that our team appreciates for combatting cabin dryness.
ANA’s 'The Room' is equipped with a massive screen and ample surface area for laptops and documents. It is a superior office in the sky. JAL’s Sky Suite, while comfortable, offers less lateral space for spreading out work materials. If your flight is intended to be a productive extension of your workday, ANA is the logical choice.
If you are flying on a route equipped with ANA’s 'The Room', it is currently the most competitive business class product in terms of hardware and privacy. It sets a new standard for the industry. However, JAL’s Sky Suite remains a favorite for its comfort and the consistently high level of personal attention from the crew. For the traveler who prioritizes space and privacy, book ANA. For the traveler who prioritizes a soft, refined atmosphere, JAL remains peerless.
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