JAL Economy: London Heathrow to Tokyo Narita

Quick verdict

JAL economy on the London to Tokyo route is notably better than most long-haul economy experiences. The service is attentive without being intrusive, the food is genuinely good (the Japanese meal option especially), and the seat - while still economy - feels a touch more generous than the European and American competition. The main downside is the destination airport: Narita, not Haneda, which adds sixty to ninety minutes to your journey into central Tokyo.

Booking

JAL flies daily from Heathrow Terminal 3 to Narita. Fares are competitive with British Airways, sometimes cheaper, and the service quality tilts the decision in JAL’s favour for most travellers. The airline is part of Oneworld, so BA Avios and status count. Book direct through JAL for the best flexibility on changes.

The airport experience

Check-in at Heathrow T3 is straightforward. JAL’s ground staff are efficient and polite - a preview of the onboard experience. No lounge access in economy, but T3 has decent airside facilities for food and browsing.

The seat

Economy on JAL’s long-haul fleet offers a touch more legroom than the industry average. The seat pitch felt comfortable for a twelve-hour flight, which is saying something. The recline is modest but the seat padding is good quality - no pressure points developing at the eight-hour mark, which happens on some carriers.

Power outlets at every seat. USB charging. A reasonably sized entertainment screen. The basics are all covered and covered well.

Service

This is where JAL distinguishes itself. The cabin crew are attentive, professional, and genuinely warm without the performative friendliness you get on some airlines. Drinks service is frequent. Requests are handled immediately. The small touches - hot towels, careful presentation of meals, a genuine interest in whether you are comfortable - add up over twelve hours.

Food

The highlight. JAL’s economy catering is a clear step above the industry standard. Two full meals plus snacks available between services. The Japanese meal option (typically a set meal with rice, miso, pickles, and a main) is the one to choose - it is authentic, well-prepared, and tastes like actual food rather than airline catering. The Western option is fine but unremarkable.

The drinks selection includes Japanese beer (Kirin, Asahi) and a reasonable wine list. Complimentary throughout.

Entertainment

A solid selection of recent films, Japanese cinema, TV series, and music. The screen quality is good. Noise-cancelling headphones are not provided in economy - bring your own for a better experience.

Arrival at Narita

The flight arrives at Narita rather than Haneda, which is the significant practical downside. Narita is sixty to ninety minutes from central Tokyo by train. After twelve hours in economy, that additional journey feels long. Immigration is efficient, luggage delivery is fast (Japanese airports are excellent at this), and the signage to the Narita Express is clear. But you will arrive at your hotel meaningfully later than if the flight served Haneda.

For the full breakdown of Narita transfer options, see our Narita to Central Tokyo guide.

Rating

JAL economy to Tokyo is the flight I would book again. The Narita arrival is the one genuine inconvenience, but the twelve hours before that are handled with a care and quality that most airlines reserve for premium cabins. For UK travellers heading to Japan in economy, this is the benchmark.