Japan Airlines have announced that they will be increasing flights on the Melbourne-Narita route to Tokyo. Between 27 October 2024 and 29 March 2025, the route will increase from 3 flights per week to 6 per week. Additionally, 4 of those flights will be operated by the larger 787-9 aircraft, featuring Business Class and introducing a Premium Economy Class cabin.

Japan Airlines Routes

Current Route

There are currently 3 JAL flights operating per week on the Melbourne-Narita route on Boeing 787-8.

The flight operates Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, departing at 7.20am and arriving in Tokyo at 14.20pm. Return flights also operate 3 times a week - departing Narita on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays at 18.25pm arriving in Melbourne at 6.35am.

Being a Oneworld member, JAL’s partner airline, Qantas, also offers direct flights which run daily. This flight departs Melbourne on Airbus A330-300 at 9.25am and arrives in Tokyo at 19.00pm. Return flights operate daily at 20.25pm and arrive in Melbourne at 7.45am.

New Route

The new route will operate all days except Thursdays, departing Melbourne at 7.20am and arriving in Narita at 14.20pm. All of these flights will include a Business Class cabin for guests. 4 out of 6 flights will operate on a larger 787-9 aircraft and feature Premium Economy. The other two direct flights on JAL will operate on Boeing 787-8.

Return flights will also operate 6 times per week, flying all days except Wednesdays. The flight will depart at 17.40pm and arrive in Melbourne at 5.40am.

From October 27, 2024, Oneworld member, Qantas, will depart Melbourne daily from 10.25am and arrive in Tokyo at 19.00pm on Airbus A330-300. Qantas will also depart Tokyo daily, leaving Narita at 19.20pm and arriving in Melbourne at 7.45am.

About JAL Business Class

Japan Airlines offers a few different Business Class seats on different flights.

However, onboard the 787-8 and 787-9, Business Class guests can expect to stretch out on the fully flat bed which provides passengers with ample leg room. Each Business Class seat feels more like a private room with all seats offering unimpeded aisle access to minimise disturbances.

Business Class guests additionally have access to the Sakura Lounge at a variety of airports as well as priority check in and baggage service. Onboard, passengers have access to the JAL MAGIC entertainment system where noise-cancelling headphones are provided to enhance your enjoyment.

If you are looking to take advantage of the increased flights to Tokyo, now is the time to book!

Check out our best Business Class deals, or get in touch with an airfare specialist today!