Japan Airlines (JAL) has announced it will introduce First Class to its daily flights between Sydney and Tokyo from May 31, 2024. This strategic move makes JAL the exclusive carrier providing First Class services on the Australia to Japan route.

The transition involves replacing the current Boeing 787 Dreamliner with a Boeing 777, configured with a four-class layout. This includes eight exclusive First Class suites, 49 seats in Business Class, and a spacious Premium Economy cabin accommodating 40 passengers. The new First Class offering is expected to be particularly attractive to Qantas frequent flyers, who now have the opportunity to redeem their points for a premium travel experience.

The daily schedule for the Sydney to Tokyo route (JL52) remains unchanged, departing at 8:15am and arriving at Tokyo Haneda Airport at 5:05pm. The return flight (JL 51) takes off from Haneda at 7:20pm. Reaching Sydney at 6:10am the following day. As part of JA;’s Oneworld membership, Qantas frequent flyers can seamlessly exchange their points for a coveted First Class reward seat.

While the First Class cabins on the Boeing 777 may not match the spaciousness of the Airbus A350, the two-row cabin is arranged in a 1-2-1 layout, offering a cosy and private atmosphere. Each suite transforms into a fully Flat Bed, approximately 84 cm wide and almost 2 metres (199 cm) in length. Although the suites lack sliding privacy doors, the centre pairs come with a retractable privacy panel, ensuring flexibility for solo travellers or companions.

In an additional development, Japan Airlines has unveiled a First Class Entrance at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport. First Class passengers are now welcomed through an exclusive check-in area, followed by access to a dedicated security checkpoint and immigration line. The entrance is available for JAL First Class passengers and one accompanying guest between 6:30am and 11:30am, and from 2pm to 7pm.

With the reintroduction of First Class to Australia, JAL distinguishes itself as one of the select carriers offering this exclusive service. Now is the perfect time to explore our current Japan Airlines airfare deals, along with First Class flights from Australia. Get in touch with an airfare specialist today!