Another absolute feast for the senses…the videography, the music, the review itself…just magical. I love everything Japan, so that makes it extra enjoyable for me. I didn’t expect the gap with ANA to be this wide, but loved both reviews equally, just because you make it such an exceptional experience to watch, as if I’m sitting there enjoying it in real time. Thank you so much for the many hours of hard work you put into each and every video! 🙏🏼💫🪄
Yup, the gap really surprised me as well. In retrospect- after the great experiences I had on JAL on the Domestic flights coming up soon- the whole experience just didn't seem to fit with what they're trying to do as an airline. Hopefully their new CEO will bring all of this together with perhaps a more refined touch!
There are no gaps in Japanese standards. Flights from NY are not the same as flights from Tokyo. Japanese catering companies, chefs, and ingredients is what allows Japanese carriers to be who they are. They cannot provide the same level of quality using American catering companies and ingredients. All Japanese frequent travelers will know this, so we would opt for "Western" cuisine when we fly out of Western countries, and often choose Japanese cuisine when flying out of Japan. FYI, the only other locations that can offer Japan-grade quality catering is Taiwan, South Korea, Singapore, HK, and Shanghai. It's because they can get a hold of Japanese ingredients and know how to cook Japanese food. High-end Japanese Sushi restaurants in the US, fly their fish from Japan everyday. But that would impractical for an airline to do, just for a few people in first-class.
Great video, Kevin. I'm actually glad you got to experience this suite before the new one because that will allow for a reference to measure improvement in different areas. I've always had a soft spot in my heart for JAL since that was my first job. It'll be 40 years next October since I started working for them in Mexico City. When the airline was privatized in 1987, I was lucky to be selected to attend a series of events in Tokyo, and was upgraded to First. There were 33 reclining seats in the First Class cabin of the B747-200 at the time, all upholstered in deep purple and sitting on a red carpet in what was the last version of the "Garden Jet". The service and the meal were outstanding, all served out of a cart. Dessert was the star, and it was something that would never happen now: cherries jubilee, flambéed seatside. Yes, the chief purser actually used fire onboard the aircraft... That's crazy today, isn't it? Over the years I worked for ANA out of the U.S. and got to fly their First Class cabin as well, during the mid-nineties. There was little to differentiate the carriers back then, other than branding. Today I think it's different. But regardless of the attentive service and hardware and what not, I find that Japanese airlines are my reference for safety awareness. To this day I still measure how cabin crews on any airline behave towards safety against the Japanese standard. I'll be very happy to catch up with the whole Japanese series now. Thank you for your great work.
I've been following you for quite some time. More and more, I've become addicted to the no BS, no fluff, long 'plane sightseeing' and the voice off. I thought I'd share this comment. Please keep 'em coming. ✈
Americans of a certain age surely know Halliburton. Been around for many decades. They were the original aluminum travel case that were famous literally over 60 years ago. Long before Pelican, they were the Go To for movie and film crews, music industry, and field services folks in the oil, gas, and natural resources industry to protect sensitive equipment. I’ve used them (and later on Anvil) to ship all kinds of expensive hardware to every corner of the flat earth. Millions of Americans know the brand. Zero Corp was a Japanese company. Halliburton Zero briefcases were the darling of the Gordon Gekko crowd in the 80s. Zero bought Halliburton and ACE Luggage bought Zero. ACE is a Japanese manufacturer of luggage and cases as well as other activewear items. They are a moderate sized company with Japanese roots and it makes sense that JAL is branding with them. Most Americans are probably confused by this.
I appreciate the history of it, I just find it being offered on Japan Airlines a bit disturbingly ironic considering the 'football' is housed in a Halliburton Zero case.
" I had nearly 9 hours of video. That's... too much" 😂. I am shocked at how much better ANA seems. I don't know if Salon is going to make up for the other shortcomings...
One of the best parts about your videos is the spool up and take off sequence. I just wish you'd include the climb thrust reduction sound too. This would become top tier aviation ASMR 😁
Thank you Kevin for giving us viewers a glance into the stunningly sumptuous JAL service on a long-haul transpacific route. I will soon be on a JAL flight from Tokyo to Dallas and I am looking forward to it especially after this video.
Agree with the comments about the classes below F on JL. Yes, economy, prem economy, and business are good. I've flown multiple long haul routes on JL in Business and it is a great product and service. I only choose the western meal and have found them to be one of the few airlines that can prepared a medium rare steak. The bed is comfortable enough and there's the right amount of privacy without comparing Q-suites. Yes, the cabin temp is consistently warm but the bedding in Business is also nice. Although I have never understood the cardigan loaner service. LOL. Regarding the brown color scheme, you are right, it is not a core part of the JL style guide, but that color is consistent with their lounges which I actually like. I've also sat in economy on some intra-Asia routes such as NRT-SIN and have found their service amazing. Ring the FA button and you get whatever you need within minutes.
I flew LHR HND LHR on JAL over the last two weeks ... albeit just in Premium Economy (JAL offers the best hard product in this class) so not a patch on your experience. I did get to use the CX and JAL First class lounges at LHR and HND respectively because of my BA Gold status, which was lovely. You mention JAL's old MEX - YVR - NRT route - I flew on that in 1981 when I was a kid with my family on the YVR - NRT leg on a 747-100 or 200 connecting to SIN, where we lived at the time, on a DC10 . Good memories. In my view, JAL have maintained their consistently courteous service over the years.
I think it's like a lot of airlines, they're struggling to differentiate FC from BC. Because BC itself is super competitive across airlines, so it keeps getting better. It was only a matter of time for BC to start clanging into the FC offering for much cheaper.
This flight (IMO) should only been done from Japan (so you can drink that Salon to your heart's content). Also, the Japanese menu tends to be more fresh from Japan. The 20 year Tawny port and Salon were my favs from that flight
JA743J!!! Certainly a full circle moment for me here with your channel, Kevin. I'd actually stumbled upon your channel when I found your review of their SkySuite Business product on the 777 last year, when I was booking my trip to Vietnam, a JFK-NRT-SGN routing with JL. It was my first transpacific crossing, and one that I was even more looking forward to after seeing your video, which made me equally excited to fly with Japan Airlines. And of course it was operated by none other than JA743J. And likewise, the views over Alaska were the highlight by far! Another great video. Keep up the great work!
Kevin - cannot wait to see how your checked in / larger Level 8 cases hold up… I am wanting to pull the trigger on either a Briggs & Riley OR thanks to you, a Level 8 large suitcase…but - I have always used soft sided luggage - so I’m curious / nervous about the polycarbonate ‘hard shell’ and how durable it will be after the baggage guys jump all over it. 🥸
The larger bag I only travel with on US to Asia trips, but it's held up great on those 7 or so flights. My carry on is the exact same material and through the 60 odd flights you honestly wouldn't know it was even used, except for a bit of the yellow logo on the wheels rubbing off. Even on the case itself, if you get it back and it looks scratched or scuffed, take a damp wash cloth and it literally just comes off. Also, for the larger bags, the square shape of the voyageur trunk I think makes the entire thing more rigid. Prior to these Level 8 bags, I too had never used a hard sided bag. After 6 months with them- I promise I won't ever be using soft sided bags again.
Thanks, Kevin!! Looks like it’s time to start shopping! We are doing three weeks in Prague and Budapest this September, so I need the modern day steamer trunk (insert my husband’s rolling eyes here!!).
Brought back some lovely memories of my own trip in JAL First from HND to LHR back in 2022 in the exact same seat as you Kevin actually, 2K 😅 Crews were just phenomenal and the service was outstanding
Hey Kevin, when was this video filmed? I am just asking because Japan Airlines has been flying the Airbus A350-1000 to JFK on the same rotation as your flight as of January 2024.
The production quality on these videos is outstanding. I'll be flying first class with JAL SYD>HND when it's added to their first class route. It cost an extra £250 Avios + £200 taxes/fees to upgrade from business to first, that's approx. USD$574 / Yen 89,580 total. I'm looking forward to the flight, trying all the Japanese food and just relaxing.
I have flown 777 F a few times on JAL and my experience has always been world class. The reason could be because I made an effort to connect with the crew. Asking them how long they have worked. Which is their favorite city/country to fly to? The tea, the food. Remember, you can ask for items off of the western menu too, they usually have extra food.
I have watched other reviews about the new JAL first class on their A350-1000, gotta say it is a massive upgrade on every level compared to this first class product. Including business class
Both my Solagaard 20” suitcases were damaged on my trip around Europe. One by Ryanair and the other by Singapore Airline, although they were stuffed to the max but I’ll probably be getting one of those Level 8 suitcases!
In my Shinkansen Gran Class video you’ll see me literally standing on top of my 20” Hegent at the end of the ad spot (I’m not 100lbs 😂). I would never say anything is indestructible… but I’m pretty damn happy, especially for the prices they charge.
@@tfft I was going to buy a Rimowa in Frankfurt, as I positioned there for a Singapore Airline business class flight to JFK but thanks to ITA Airways schedule change and flight delays I didn’t get to Frankfurt until 11 pm and had to be up at 5:30 for a 8:30 flight.
Took the JAL 767 business from HKG to NRT last summer, JP crews are just amazing especially I'm traveling with my young son and I was focusing on waiting for that few seconds that Mt Fuji pop up from the cloud lol
@@tfft No,I don't mind. It is 455k F 16 sectors,8 in F and 8 J plus expensive surcharges. I'm not an influencer but have done 2000 self funded flights since 1978 and like your honest style like P Shea. The others are not objective like Jeb and Josh but Sam C and I have had arguments on planes and lounges as I call him out for messing with crew and filming people as he has assistant. He's a bully and intimidating to crew.
Another great video ! I’m moving to Japan soon for a few years, definitely gonna catch up on traveling while I’m there. probably gonna stick with ANA or EVA tho after watching your reviews - which is consistent with my own experience 😊
Nice review as always. After seeing this I do agree that ANA is far superior when judged by your experiences and my own when flying them. I've gone out of my way to fly ANA and have never regretted it at all. It's up there with the very best business class products in the air.
One word excelnce in every angle Kelvin should become the Ambassador for Whole Hospitality World such informative on everything also looking forward to see the Million viewers shortly 👍🌹🌹💯👍💯👍💯👍
Thank you again for bringing another amazing videos! The views were breathtaking. I have watched some other reviews on this old F product. One reviewer stayed at Japan for many years mentioned the items from the Japanese menu on the way to Tokyo was like what you mentioned, nothing special. He chose Western Menu instead and it tasted pretty good. I will be flying A35K F from DFW to HND. I will be interested to compare the food quality to my ANA ORD-NRT F class in this Apr (which is better than I expected from ORD). Interestingly, I have heard many times that JAL's food was better than ANA. I guess we will see.
I'm waiting for a deal. Have been kicking myself for months bc I couldn't get the the KUL-HND-JFK roundtrip fare for $2100 to fit into my schedule... hopefully next year they have a similar offer.
Is first class and business different? did u pay for your drinks? . can you take the PJ's at every fligths? May I ask how much was the ticket? :) Thank you for the video
Hi, Kevin. Another great review. The part for me were the views out of the window. If the whole nine hours were the same, I could have them all😅. Apart from that it's certainly up to your usual outstanding quality. Thank you ❤
Kevin, which video was your first one? As I'm binge watching I'd like to go back to the beginning. BTW, you know when I fly business or first class I'll be looking for a man 6 feet tall with a ring on his thumb! 🤣 Love the views over Alaska! I'm flying to YVR on AirCanada in a couple of weeks and hope we have clear skies! We will be landing around sunset.
You can click on the Videos tab on my channel and then click "Oldest" and it will sort all videos from first to last. Original was the Fusion Phu Quoc which has since closed.
Looking forward to this review, as I’m hoping to fly this airline via premium economy to Vietnam. Where we’ll be staying at a Six Senses (fantastic review on that resort by the way)😊
Thanks very much, as ever :) Flights with views like those cause most people pause for thought, i think. Like 'what a world we live in'. Incredible, thanks for sharing. I'd not get on JAL first, if there's ANA available, right now. JAL economy must be their best product (top 1 to 5 for most i'd guess), followed by premium economy (top five to ten), first (top 10), and then business (top 15). If I were their CEO, I'd want my business class to be a lot more competitive, and my first class to be delivering Japanese style luxury, old-Aman style.
New Subscriber here... love your videos and narration without any of that annoying sing-song type of narration with an uptalk at the end of each sentence that you might find in other travel vlogger videos
I wonder how they assemble so many dishes that make up a Japanese meal. Is everything pre-plated before it's loaded on the plane or do they assemble half finished recipes in the galley. Seems quite laborious.
@@tfftyou’re right. ANA looks fresh to the eye, and the plating isn’t stale, like hours old. The colors pop better and it just looks so premium like a Michelin star restaurant presentation. ANA kicks JAL down several notches. I was surprised at the burger which looks great and being from NY I would expect it to be exceptionally prepared but the plastic tube of ketchup and mayonnaise? Come on, they could have had a tiny saucepan for that or even in the can opener that many quality restaurants use. I’ve also seen at high end hotels including 5 star properties. Also the tray takes away from the presentation. Even if it’s looks like a wooden black tray it’s still sitting on a tray. This looks business class at best.
The Chelsea lounge isn't really that much smaller than the Soho, but it lacks any views over the apron, or indeed any views at all. I've never seen the Chelsea lounge anywhere near capacity, but the same cannot be said for the Soho lounge which is often very full. It's definitely very much more exclusive and quiet in the Chelsea lounge. It's a bit weird that JAL F isn't afforded access to the Chelsea: at LHR T3, for example, JAL F pax enjoy access to the Concorde section of the BA F lounge, including the same enhanced F&B choices as the flagship BA Concorde Room in LHR T5, including premium Champagne. The blankets, table cloths and napkins have all been changed, some time between mid January and mid April, and they're on 777s too. I can't say I ever had any particular dislike to the old blankets, though, to be honest. I do like the JAL international F experience, whether it's full or not, the exception being that out of Japan the Salon is Champagne is very limited. Some flights there's only been one bottle, even in a full cabin. Thankfully I prefer the current vintage Drappier currently also on the menu anyway! There is typically a language problem when interacting with crew on JAL, and I think this doesn't really help when building up a rapport. But then again, my Japanese amounts to only a handful of phrases, so I can't talk. You're right that most of the rest of the booze list isn't too exciting, I put in a par with BA F and QR F (QR F wines are pretty disappointing compared to how they have been historically). An exception is the Kokuto de Lequio, a dark brown sugar liqueur from Okinawa. They make a fantastic Espresso Martini with it in the Salon lounge at HND. I missed the caviar, I could see it on the menu, they serve it as a DIY garnish to another dish, were you offered it? Missing on your menu is the beef curry... definitely a favourite of mine on these 14h flights. Bathroom: as with all Japanese toilets, the butt sprayer is awesome, but make sure you've identified and are familiar with the precise location of the STOP button before you sit down... don't ask me how I know ;-) There is a timeout on it after a couple of minutes in case.
@@tfft Frankly, they're a life changing. The problem with those on board is that the controls are by your butt cheek and not well lit, so that's why you need to check you know where the STOP button is before getting settled in ;-)
You get access to the highest category AA lounge - the Chelsea lounge, the requirements state that you must be traveling in First Class on an American Airlines operated flight.
Great video. Thanks for sharing. But if you think these are poor quality first class wines, you should fly Qantas F - just woeful. Embarrassing given what a great wine country Australia is.
Kinda mid compared to your other first class experiences, but for someone like me who’s never been on first class it looks pretty good to me . Nice video as always. 😊
Agree with everything you said, Kevin. I've flown them a lot and their service ranges from "fine" to "beginner" and the wines are just a joke. Usually they are "temporarily out" of the French wines. If I were spending $ and not miles, I would go with ANA hands down. No comparison. Thank you for another great video.
Without trying to trigger anyone. I really think Japanese food is overrated. This is coming from a Brit too. I've been there a dozen times and I like the country but I just can't remember a meal that stuck out to me, except, when I couldn't read the Japanese menu and randomly pointed to spaghetti.
It's not to everyone's liking. The best Japanese food is about quality, delicate care and harmony among the ingredients. This leads to a lot of subtle flavors which don't suit all palates. To me, Japanese fine dining is much more a delicious meditative experience than it is a normal dining experience.
Just ok? Actually come to think, there is nothing wrong with just being "ok". And touch on JAL"s history in the "decades to follow"? Then you have to mention the amazing turnaround of JAL. In 2009-2010, JAL was facing bankruptcy with an incompatible fleet, bloated workforce and severe cash crunch. In came Kazuo Inamori, a billionaire and Zen Buddhist, who took the reins of the stricken airline and turn it back to profit. Within 2 years of Inamori's takeover, JAL became one of the world's most profitable airline. As for First Class of JAL, no need to wait until it is more available, you gotta try their new First Class on the A350 sooner or later.
Do you ever actually have to pay for a flight without using points of some kind or another? It seems like every flight review you do, the flight is paid for mainly by points and maybe a few hundred dollars of actual money.
@@tfft 84/100 I believe is under your median score. The tone of the video just felt kind of negative/frustrated. I assume it reflects how you felt so no problem with that. As per usual top production values on the video.
I suggest watching my ANA first class video. There is a difference between basic forgettable food and elegant and delicate simplicity. Just because something is Japanese, doesn't automatically mean it was prepared well...
Let’s be honest here the food looked yawn worthy and dull It’s NOT first class in any way compared to other long haul routes Average business class at best
Another absolute feast for the senses…the videography, the music, the review itself…just magical. I love everything Japan, so that makes it extra enjoyable for me. I didn’t expect the gap with ANA to be this wide, but loved both reviews equally, just because you make it such an exceptional experience to watch, as if I’m sitting there enjoying it in real time. Thank you so much for the many hours of hard work you put into each and every video! 🙏🏼💫🪄
Yup, the gap really surprised me as well. In retrospect- after the great experiences I had on JAL on the Domestic flights coming up soon- the whole experience just didn't seem to fit with what they're trying to do as an airline. Hopefully their new CEO will bring all of this together with perhaps a more refined touch!
There are no gaps in Japanese standards. Flights from NY are not the same as flights from Tokyo. Japanese catering companies, chefs, and ingredients is what allows Japanese carriers to be who they are. They cannot provide the same level of quality using American catering companies and ingredients. All Japanese frequent travelers will know this, so we would opt for "Western" cuisine when we fly out of Western countries, and often choose Japanese cuisine when flying out of Japan.
FYI, the only other locations that can offer Japan-grade quality catering is Taiwan, South Korea, Singapore, HK, and Shanghai. It's because they can get a hold of Japanese ingredients and know how to cook Japanese food. High-end Japanese Sushi restaurants in the US, fly their fish from Japan everyday. But that would impractical for an airline to do, just for a few people in first-class.
Great video, Kevin. I'm actually glad you got to experience this suite before the new one because that will allow for a reference to measure improvement in different areas.
I've always had a soft spot in my heart for JAL since that was my first job. It'll be 40 years next October since I started working for them in Mexico City. When the airline was privatized in 1987, I was lucky to be selected to attend a series of events in Tokyo, and was upgraded to First. There were 33 reclining seats in the First Class cabin of the B747-200 at the time, all upholstered in deep purple and sitting on a red carpet in what was the last version of the "Garden Jet". The service and the meal were outstanding, all served out of a cart. Dessert was the star, and it was something that would never happen now: cherries jubilee, flambéed seatside. Yes, the chief purser actually used fire onboard the aircraft... That's crazy today, isn't it?
Over the years I worked for ANA out of the U.S. and got to fly their First Class cabin as well, during the mid-nineties. There was little to differentiate the carriers back then, other than branding. Today I think it's different. But regardless of the attentive service and hardware and what not, I find that Japanese airlines are my reference for safety awareness. To this day I still measure how cabin crews on any airline behave towards safety against the Japanese standard.
I'll be very happy to catch up with the whole Japanese series now. Thank you for your great work.
Thanks for watching 🩴
Any Japan related videos are fine by me. I went to Japan last year for the first time and absolutely loved it.
Oh well then you’ll enjoy the next 2 months on this channel! Thanks for watching 🩴
I've been following you for quite some time. More and more, I've become addicted to the no BS, no fluff, long 'plane sightseeing' and the voice off. I thought I'd share this comment. Please keep 'em coming. ✈
Appreciate that!
Americans of a certain age surely know Halliburton. Been around for many decades. They were the original aluminum travel case that were famous literally over 60 years ago. Long before Pelican, they were the Go To for movie and film crews, music industry, and field services folks in the oil, gas, and natural resources industry to protect sensitive equipment. I’ve used them (and later on Anvil) to ship all kinds of expensive hardware to every corner of the flat earth. Millions of Americans know the brand. Zero Corp was a Japanese company. Halliburton Zero briefcases were the darling of the Gordon Gekko crowd in the 80s. Zero bought Halliburton and ACE Luggage bought Zero. ACE is a Japanese manufacturer of luggage and cases as well as other activewear items. They are a moderate sized company with Japanese roots and it makes sense that JAL is branding with them. Most Americans are probably confused by this.
I appreciate the history of it, I just find it being offered on Japan Airlines a bit disturbingly ironic considering the 'football' is housed in a Halliburton Zero case.
@@tfft I wonder if when the President opens the case, there's an eye mask, lip balm, and a 15% off coupon?
The views are breathtaking and so is the music...
Thanks very much 🙏🏻
@@tfft welcome 😊
Some of the most beautiful flight footage I've ever seen. Thank you.
Thanks very much 🙏🏻
S tier flight reviewer 🗿🔥 you’re definitely among my favourites
Thanks very much 🙏🏻
Spot on about the JAL safety video. Many airlines’ videos don’t highlight enough the need to leave all luggage on board during an evacuation.
It surprises me how much I enjoy the part of their video when the female crew is standing in the Aisle with hands up in the "stop" position haha.
" I had nearly 9 hours of video. That's... too much" 😂. I am shocked at how much better ANA seems. I don't know if Salon is going to make up for the other shortcomings...
Oh it certainly wouldn't especially since they only board one bottle of it for most flights... even if the cabin is full.
One of the best parts about your videos is the spool up and take off sequence. I just wish you'd include the climb thrust reduction sound too. This would become top tier aviation ASMR 😁
Thanks very much 🙏🏻
Thank you Kevin for giving us viewers a glance into the stunningly sumptuous JAL service on a long-haul transpacific route. I will soon be on a JAL flight from Tokyo to Dallas and I am looking forward to it especially after this video.
Enjoy your trip 🗺️
Agree with the comments about the classes below F on JL. Yes, economy, prem economy, and business are good. I've flown multiple long haul routes on JL in Business and it is a great product and service. I only choose the western meal and have found them to be one of the few airlines that can prepared a medium rare steak. The bed is comfortable enough and there's the right amount of privacy without comparing Q-suites. Yes, the cabin temp is consistently warm but the bedding in Business is also nice. Although I have never understood the cardigan loaner service. LOL. Regarding the brown color scheme, you are right, it is not a core part of the JL style guide, but that color is consistent with their lounges which I actually like.
I've also sat in economy on some intra-Asia routes such as NRT-SIN and have found their service amazing. Ring the FA button and you get whatever you need within minutes.
Thanks for sharing ✈️
I flew LHR HND LHR on JAL over the last two weeks ... albeit just in Premium Economy (JAL offers the best hard product in this class) so not a patch on your experience. I did get to use the CX and JAL First class lounges at LHR and HND respectively because of my BA Gold status, which was lovely. You mention JAL's old MEX - YVR - NRT route - I flew on that in 1981 when I was a kid with my family on the YVR - NRT leg on a 747-100 or 200 connecting to SIN, where we lived at the time, on a DC10 . Good memories. In my view, JAL have maintained their consistently courteous service over the years.
Thanks for sharing ✈️
I think it's like a lot of airlines, they're struggling to differentiate FC from BC. Because BC itself is super competitive across airlines, so it keeps getting better. It was only a matter of time for BC to start clanging into the FC offering for much cheaper.
Thanks for watching 🩴
Absolutely amazing videos! This channel should have millions of subscribers.
Thanks very much 🙏🏻
This flight (IMO) should only been done from Japan (so you can drink that Salon to your heart's content). Also, the Japanese menu tends to be more fresh from Japan. The 20 year Tawny port and Salon were my favs from that flight
Agreed, but not really to your heart's content- each flight generally only gets one bottle of Salon loaded.
This... THIS is why Kev is the Nonstop Dan of Asian airlines!
He always delivers the goods! 👺
Sayonara bro!
Nothing like Nonstop Dan IMHO, whose channel should be called "Dan Moans Nonstop about Life as a Hyper-Privileged Vegetarian".
That's assuming that Nonstop Dan is your favorite lol
@@nezbrun872 Vegetarian is a great lifestyle until it isn't
@@nezbrun872😂😂😂
@@tfft How about The Caucasian Sam Choi of Asian airlines! That's way higher praise!
JA743J!!! Certainly a full circle moment for me here with your channel, Kevin. I'd actually stumbled upon your channel when I found your review of their SkySuite Business product on the 777 last year, when I was booking my trip to Vietnam, a JFK-NRT-SGN routing with JL. It was my first transpacific crossing, and one that I was even more looking forward to after seeing your video, which made me equally excited to fly with Japan Airlines. And of course it was operated by none other than JA743J.
And likewise, the views over Alaska were the highlight by far! Another great video. Keep up the great work!
Thanks very much for tagging along for the journey!
Kevin - cannot wait to see how your checked in / larger Level 8 cases hold up… I am wanting to pull the trigger on either a Briggs & Riley OR thanks to you, a Level 8 large suitcase…but - I have always used soft sided luggage - so I’m curious / nervous about the polycarbonate ‘hard shell’ and how durable it will be after the baggage guys jump all over it. 🥸
The larger bag I only travel with on US to Asia trips, but it's held up great on those 7 or so flights. My carry on is the exact same material and through the 60 odd flights you honestly wouldn't know it was even used, except for a bit of the yellow logo on the wheels rubbing off. Even on the case itself, if you get it back and it looks scratched or scuffed, take a damp wash cloth and it literally just comes off. Also, for the larger bags, the square shape of the voyageur trunk I think makes the entire thing more rigid. Prior to these Level 8 bags, I too had never used a hard sided bag. After 6 months with them- I promise I won't ever be using soft sided bags again.
Thanks, Kevin!! Looks like it’s time to start shopping! We are doing three weeks in Prague and Budapest this September, so I need the modern day steamer trunk (insert my husband’s rolling eyes here!!).
WOW - even at 84 & not even close to your ANA experience 😎😎😎. Thanks so much for the info + video!
Thanks for watching 🩴
Brought back some lovely memories of my own trip in JAL First from HND to LHR back in 2022 in the exact same seat as you Kevin actually, 2K 😅 Crews were just phenomenal and the service was outstanding
Thanks for watching 🩴
Hey Kevin, when was this video filmed? I am just asking because Japan Airlines has been flying the Airbus A350-1000 to JFK on the same rotation as your flight as of January 2024.
I explained this in detail in the video 😉 Here I thought the Christmas trees gave it away...
The production quality on these videos is outstanding. I'll be flying first class with JAL SYD>HND when it's added to their first class route. It cost an extra £250 Avios + £200 taxes/fees to upgrade from business to first, that's approx. USD$574 / Yen 89,580 total.
I'm looking forward to the flight, trying all the Japanese food and just relaxing.
Enjoy your trip 🗺️
gotta love them Turkish Airlines A380s
Riiiight?
I have flown 777 F a few times on JAL and my experience has always been world class.
The reason could be because I made an effort to connect with the crew. Asking them how long they have worked. Which is their favorite city/country to fly to?
The tea, the food. Remember, you can ask for items off of the western menu too, they usually have extra food.
Hmm... I said the service on board was some of the most attentive I've ever had...
I have watched other reviews about the new JAL first class on their A350-1000, gotta say it is a massive upgrade on every level compared to this first class product. Including business class
Well, I would hope so lol
I always look forward to Thursdays and Saturdays! Love Shiseido products and your dry sense of humor. 😊
Thanks very much 🙏🏻
That table cloth is the weirdest part of the experience to me… great video as always
Agree lol
"Invited to do the thing the we all love to do; turn left!" So true :D (until you get boarded from the rear haha). But amazing review Kevin!
Well...even from the rear you need to turn left to get up front lol
Both my Solagaard 20” suitcases were damaged on my trip around Europe. One by Ryanair and the other by Singapore Airline, although they were stuffed to the max but I’ll probably be getting one of those Level 8 suitcases!
In my Shinkansen Gran Class video you’ll see me literally standing on top of my 20” Hegent at the end of the ad spot (I’m not 100lbs 😂). I would never say anything is indestructible… but I’m pretty damn happy, especially for the prices they charge.
@@tfft I was going to buy a Rimowa in Frankfurt, as I positioned there for a Singapore Airline business class flight to JFK but thanks to ITA Airways schedule change and flight delays I didn’t get to Frankfurt until 11 pm and had to be up at 5:30 for a 8:30 flight.
Haven’t checked in a while but love that your subscriber number has soared. Well deserved!
Appreciate that!
Took the JAL 767 business from HKG to NRT last summer, JP crews are just amazing especially I'm traveling with my young son and I was focusing on waiting for that few seconds that Mt Fuji pop up from the cloud lol
Thanks for sharing ✈️
Wow ❤ For me even going to the airport is a distant dream. Trust me you are living a great life 🎉
Thanks for watching 🩴
Slowly but surely you take your time to do the review, its a banger in the end
Thanks very much 🙏🏻
I look forward to your Japan series. Planning our 4th visit next year. Are you posting JAL A350 domestic first class? It’s quite amazing.
Yes, JAL Domestic First, J-Class and short haul Economy coming... as well as Jetstar Japan and Zipair (both owned by JAL).
Just booked F seat on QF RTW awards from JFK TO TYO TO SYD with a stop. Seemed more readily available than high mileage singular award seat.
Nice! Mind if I ask how much was the RTW fare?
@@tfft
No,I don't mind.
It is 455k F 16 sectors,8 in F and 8 J plus expensive surcharges.
I'm not an influencer but have done 2000 self funded flights since 1978 and like your honest style like P Shea.
The others are not objective like Jeb and Josh but Sam C and I have had arguments on planes and lounges as I call him out for messing with crew and filming people as he has assistant.
He's a bully and intimidating to crew.
Also JAP PREM Y allows lounge access in all airports with OW LOUNGE.
Another great video ! I’m moving to Japan soon for a few years, definitely gonna catch up on traveling while I’m there. probably gonna stick with ANA or EVA tho after watching your reviews - which is consistent with my own experience 😊
ANA would be my choice for international, but for domestic, JAL First and "Class-J" beat ANA.
Nice review as always. After seeing this I do agree that ANA is far superior when judged by your experiences and my own when flying them. I've gone out of my way to fly ANA and have never regretted it at all. It's up there with the very best business class products in the air.
Same here, patiently waiting for an ANA business class deal anywhere to experience The Room!
One word excelnce in every angle Kelvin should become the Ambassador for Whole Hospitality World such informative on everything also looking forward to see the Million viewers shortly 👍🌹🌹💯👍💯👍💯👍
Thanks very much 🙏🏻
Yes! Japan videos for weeks! I'm excited. Going to Japan in Sept-Oct... only business class for me though....
Ain't nothing wrong with that! Enjoy your trip 🗺️
Another great video.
Did anything ever come of the video about the Lufthansa safety lapse? Would love to hear more on that.
Nope- if and when something did (which I doubt), it would be posted in a pinned comment.
The music was the highlight for me.
Appreciate that!
Thank you again for bringing another amazing videos! The views were breathtaking. I have watched some other reviews on this old F product. One reviewer stayed at Japan for many years mentioned the items from the Japanese menu on the way to Tokyo was like what you mentioned, nothing special. He chose Western Menu instead and it tasted pretty good. I will be flying A35K F from DFW to HND. I will be interested to compare the food quality to my ANA ORD-NRT F class in this Apr (which is better than I expected from ORD). Interestingly, I have heard many times that JAL's food was better than ANA. I guess we will see.
Enjoy your trip 🗺️
I love your content. (And the flip flop style)
Thanks for watching 🩴
Next time u should try ANA The Room. It's AMAZING
I'm waiting for a deal. Have been kicking myself for months bc I couldn't get the the KUL-HND-JFK roundtrip fare for $2100 to fit into my schedule... hopefully next year they have a similar offer.
Is first class and business different? did u pay for your drinks? . can you take the PJ's at every fligths? May I ask how much was the ticket? :) Thank you for the video
Yes, very different. The price I paid is always in the descirption. Also has links to other JAL Business Class videos.
@@tfft yes I just dont understand points what they mean in $ thank you for your time , I appreciated.
Hi, Kevin. Another great review. The part for me were the views out of the window. If the whole nine hours were the same, I could have them all😅. Apart from that it's certainly up to your usual outstanding quality. Thank you ❤
Thanks very much 🙏🏻
Kevin, which video was your first one? As I'm binge watching I'd like to go back to the beginning. BTW, you know when I fly business or first class I'll be looking for a man 6 feet tall with a ring on his thumb! 🤣 Love the views over Alaska! I'm flying to YVR on AirCanada in a couple of weeks and hope we have clear skies! We will be landing around sunset.
You can click on the Videos tab on my channel and then click "Oldest" and it will sort all videos from first to last. Original was the Fusion Phu Quoc which has since closed.
@@tfft Kevin, thank you! If I'm seeing your all your videos, it seems that you've had your channel for about 3 years? Do you live in Vietnam?
Looking forward to this review, as I’m hoping to fly this airline via premium economy to Vietnam. Where we’ll be staying at a Six Senses (fantastic review on that resort by the way)😊
Enjoy your trip 🗺️
Do you know what that bridge/road is just before landing in Japan, that seems to disappear into the sea (at 34:30)? And what a sunset indeed!
Not sure of the name, but if you look at Tokyo Bay, it's the only one there, from Kawasaki, south eastward.
@@tfft It looks impressive- and as if the cars are driving underneath the airport.
Thanks very much, as ever :) Flights with views like those cause most people pause for thought, i think. Like 'what a world we live in'. Incredible, thanks for sharing. I'd not get on JAL first, if there's ANA available, right now. JAL economy must be their best product (top 1 to 5 for most i'd guess), followed by premium economy (top five to ten), first (top 10), and then business (top 15). If I were their CEO, I'd want my business class to be a lot more competitive, and my first class to be delivering Japanese style luxury, old-Aman style.
From the looks of things, this is what their (new) CEO is focusing on. She (
@@tfft very interesting, if she pulls that off they'll be takers, imo. thanks again.
New Subscriber here... love your videos and narration without any of that annoying sing-song type of narration with an uptalk at the end of each sentence that you might find in other travel vlogger videos
Sounds like you just don't like Australian accents haha. Thanks for subscribing! 📺
I wonder how they assemble so many dishes that make up a Japanese meal. Is everything pre-plated before it's loaded on the plane or do they assemble half finished recipes in the galley. Seems quite laborious.
It's a mix. I found most items here on JAL to be partially or fully prearranged- whereas on ANA it seemed the majority was plated in the air.
@@tfftyou’re right. ANA looks fresh to the eye, and the plating isn’t stale, like hours old. The colors pop better and it just looks so premium like a Michelin star restaurant presentation. ANA kicks JAL down several notches. I was surprised at the burger which looks great and being from NY I would expect it to be exceptionally prepared but the plastic tube of ketchup and mayonnaise? Come on, they could have had a tiny saucepan for that or even in the can opener that many quality restaurants use. I’ve also seen at high end hotels including 5 star properties. Also the tray takes away from the presentation. Even if it’s looks like a wooden black tray it’s still sitting on a tray. This looks business class at best.
Love the background music choice
Thanks very much 🙏🏻
All in all I think business will do on JAL everything considered - great video though once again Kevin
Agreed!
The Chelsea lounge isn't really that much smaller than the Soho, but it lacks any views over the apron, or indeed any views at all. I've never seen the Chelsea lounge anywhere near capacity, but the same cannot be said for the Soho lounge which is often very full. It's definitely very much more exclusive and quiet in the Chelsea lounge.
It's a bit weird that JAL F isn't afforded access to the Chelsea: at LHR T3, for example, JAL F pax enjoy access to the Concorde section of the BA F lounge, including the same enhanced F&B choices as the flagship BA Concorde Room in LHR T5, including premium Champagne.
The blankets, table cloths and napkins have all been changed, some time between mid January and mid April, and they're on 777s too. I can't say I ever had any particular dislike to the old blankets, though, to be honest.
I do like the JAL international F experience, whether it's full or not, the exception being that out of Japan the Salon is Champagne is very limited. Some flights there's only been one bottle, even in a full cabin. Thankfully I prefer the current vintage Drappier currently also on the menu anyway!
There is typically a language problem when interacting with crew on JAL, and I think this doesn't really help when building up a rapport. But then again, my Japanese amounts to only a handful of phrases, so I can't talk.
You're right that most of the rest of the booze list isn't too exciting, I put in a par with BA F and QR F (QR F wines are pretty disappointing compared to how they have been historically). An exception is the Kokuto de Lequio, a dark brown sugar liqueur from Okinawa. They make a fantastic Espresso Martini with it in the Salon lounge at HND.
I missed the caviar, I could see it on the menu, they serve it as a DIY garnish to another dish, were you offered it?
Missing on your menu is the beef curry... definitely a favourite of mine on these 14h flights.
Bathroom: as with all Japanese toilets, the butt sprayer is awesome, but make sure you've identified and are familiar with the precise location of the STOP button before you sit down... don't ask me how I know ;-) There is a timeout on it after a couple of minutes in case.
Having lived in Asia for around 10 years- I'm a pro with the latter end (no pun intended) of your comment haha. Thanks for sharing ✈️
@@tfft Frankly, they're a life changing. The problem with those on board is that the controls are by your butt cheek and not well lit, so that's why you need to check you know where the STOP button is before getting settled in ;-)
Stunning scenery
Agreed 💯
You get access to the highest category AA lounge - the Chelsea lounge, the requirements state that you must be traveling in First Class on an American Airlines operated flight.
…and this was not an American Airlines operated flight… 🤔
Great video. Thanks for sharing. But if you think these are poor quality first class wines, you should fly Qantas F - just woeful. Embarrassing given what a great wine country Australia is.
My reply to anything related to Qantas these days is: "No thanks" lol
The thing that blew my mind: that there was a time when having an American crew is a selling point 😂
What goes around comes around and goes again lol
Insane viws Kevin!
Thanks for watching 🩴
Are you going to show Japanese hotel reviews as well?? Ie. Aman Tokyo.
Nope, no Japan properties in the near future (and probably never the Aman Tokyo lol)
Thank you for bringing us such pleasant and relaxing content to watch that is not too overstimulating. Really appreciate it🙏🏾✈️
Thanks very much 🙏🏻
Thank You ✈️
Thanks for watching 🩴
Kinda mid compared to your other first class experiences, but for someone like me who’s never been on first class it looks pretty good to me . Nice video as always. 😊
Thanks very much 🙏🏻
"A prominent channel released a review titled 'This is it?'"
The channel being referenced wouldn't happen to rhyme with One-stop Tan would it?
No no no of course not. Much closer to Hip Hop Pan 😉
I'm surprised, I've never seen a mediocre review of JAL F food before
First for everything I suppose, no pun intended haha
like no. 100 for you. KEEP GOING
Umm, ok lol
Please review the Etihad a350-1000 business class! Love your videos 😊
Thanks for watching 🩴
Agree with everything you said, Kevin. I've flown them a lot and their service ranges from "fine" to "beginner" and the wines are just a joke. Usually they are "temporarily out" of the French wines. If I were spending $ and not miles, I would go with ANA hands down. No comparison. Thank you for another great video.
Thanks for sharing ✈️
did you pay with points ?
The exact price I pay is always in the description of every video. Thanks for watching 🩴
Denali, not McKinley.
When I first visited, it was McKinley- and that's simply how it lives in my mind. Thanks for watching 🩴
Without trying to trigger anyone. I really think Japanese food is overrated. This is coming from a Brit too. I've been there a dozen times and I like the country but I just can't remember a meal that stuck out to me, except, when I couldn't read the Japanese menu and randomly pointed to spaghetti.
It's not to everyone's liking. The best Japanese food is about quality, delicate care and harmony among the ingredients. This leads to a lot of subtle flavors which don't suit all palates. To me, Japanese fine dining is much more a delicious meditative experience than it is a normal dining experience.
An interesting route 👍✈️🇷🇺
Thanks for watching 🩴
how was haneda immigration?
I didn't enter.
sad to see JL in F has such a tired concept. their Y is still the most humane and least dense.
Sure is!
You re the best
Thanks very much 🙏🏻
US domestic "First Class" is mostly bad unless the transcon flat bed lol
It's also not the same thing lol. Kinda like comparing apples to bananas haha.
Are you lucky enough to snag a seat on Japan Airlines's A350-1000
Is that a question? lol
The first class looks like the air france la premiere seats
I think Air France would put a hit on you for saying that lol
@@tfft oh no I'm in danger
Just ok? Actually come to think, there is nothing wrong with just being "ok". And touch on JAL"s history in the "decades to follow"? Then you have to mention the amazing turnaround of JAL. In 2009-2010, JAL was facing bankruptcy with an incompatible fleet, bloated workforce and severe cash crunch. In came Kazuo Inamori, a billionaire and Zen Buddhist, who took the reins of the stricken airline and turn it back to profit. Within 2 years of Inamori's takeover, JAL became one of the world's most profitable airline. As for First Class of JAL, no need to wait until it is more available, you gotta try their new First Class on the A350 sooner or later.
If you're charging $10000 for a flight, I'd say "just ok" doesn't quite cut it lol
@@tfft Well, that is in the eye of the beholder, of course. Someone else may think its perfectly fine.
Long pants and sneakers? Geez, there’s a first for everything 😂
I mean, it was December in New York lol
Turkish A380 🤔?
One of the rarest species of them all lol
ANA better?
Sure is.
Waiting for ritz carton, last video has wrong date in description, got me wondering
Anyways, always love watching your review
Posted about a skipped video on my Community Tab last week. Thanks for watching 🩴
Do you ever actually have to pay for a flight without using points of some kind or another? It seems like every flight review you do, the flight is paid for mainly by points and maybe a few hundred dollars of actual money.
The vast vast majority of my flights are cash tickets. The price of ever flight I've ever taken is in the description of each video.
@@tfft Ah...OK. Thanks.
Bummer about the food :(
I'll survive :)
Please note that Mount McKinley is now known as Denali.
Yes, when I first visited, it was McKinley- and that's simply how it lives in my mind. Thanks for watching 🩴
It was also Denali before it was McKinley. As that's what the natives called it.
Day 1 of asking Kevin for a shoutout
Like…in a video?
Yea 😊
Luv ur vids keep it up
woke up on the wrong side of bed that day?
If an 84/100 means I woke up on the wrong side of the bed then I haven’t a clue how to respond to this comment.
@@tfft 84/100 I believe is under your median score. The tone of the video just felt kind of negative/frustrated. I assume it reflects how you felt so no problem with that. As per usual top production values on the video.
Woman washing her hands in the drinking fountain. 😮
We all have our moments lol
Guess you hate all things Singapore huh! 🤨
Where'd ya pull that from?
Bruhh.. complaining that Japanese food is basic. Thats the whole idea my man. That's Japanese cuisine.
I suggest watching my ANA first class video. There is a difference between basic forgettable food and elegant and delicate simplicity. Just because something is Japanese, doesn't automatically mean it was prepared well...
There's also amazing Japanese cuisine. Not on JAL though :-(
Let’s be honest here the food looked yawn worthy and dull
It’s NOT first class in any way compared to other long haul routes
Average business class at best
Thanks for sharing ✈️