If you’ve ever wondered which airline is better—Japan Airlines (JAL) or All Nippon Airways (ANA)—you’re not alone. Both are considered top-tier airlines, but if you had to pick just one, which should it be? Well, I took flights on both to find out.
First Up: Japan Airlines (JAL)
- Check-In & Security
Checking in at the airport was a bit more complicated than expected. Unlike in North America or Europe, where you usually enter a booking reference, JAL required a ticket number—something I had to research just to find. But after some trial and error, I finally got my boarding pass. Security? Surprisingly smooth. No extra inspections, quick processing, and I was through in no time. - Airport Experience
Since I was flying economy, I didn’t have access to JAL’s lounges. Instead, I explored the airport, which had some cool features—Japanese vending machines, bookstores, restaurants, and even a fitness center. But the highlight? The observation deck. Watching planes take off right in front of me was a rare experience for an airport. - Boarding & Flight Experience
Here’s where things got really interesting. Normally, boarding starts 30-40 minutes before departure, but in Japan, they board just 10 minutes before takeoff. I didn’t think it was possible, but somehow, everyone was seated, and we pushed back exactly on time.
Onboard, the seat was super comfortable—good cushioning, solid recline, and decent legroom. The only downside? No seatback entertainment system, but that’s normal for a one-hour flight. What really impressed me was the Wi-Fi—it was insanely fast, even better than my home internet.
Before I knew it, we were descending into Osaka. A quick flight, but honestly, one of the best I’ve had.
Next Up: All Nippon Airways (ANA)
- Check-In & Security
Checking in with ANA was a bit trickier than with JAL. My first attempt failed, but after entering my reservation number instead of my name, it worked. Security, on the other hand? Not as smooth. My bag got searched multiple times, which wasn’t exactly ideal. - Airport Experience
Just like before, I didn’t have lounge access. And to make things worse, my credit card, which usually grants access, didn’t work in Japan. But, just like the previous airport, this one had an amazing observation deck. Bonus points for a playground and splash pad—which is pretty unique for an airport. - Boarding & Flight Experience
ANA’s flight was on a massive Boeing 787, even though I had originally booked a medium-sized plane. But the most shocking part? Even with such a big aircraft, they boarded in just 15 minutes and even left one minute early.
The seat? Mixed feelings. The sitting position was nice, but the legroom and recline weren’t as good as JAL’s. However, the plane did have an entertainment system, but the movie and TV selection was pretty limited. Also, unlike JAL, the Wi-Fi didn’t work at all, which was a letdown.
When it came to the in-flight service, both airlines were pretty much the same—just a drink service since it was a short flight.
Which Airline is Better?
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Seats & Comfort: JAL wins. More legroom, better recline, and a comfier seat overall.
- Check-In Process: JAL wins again. It was smoother and had fewer issues.
- Boarding Efficiency: Tie. Both airlines boarded incredibly fast, something I wish every airline did.
- In-Flight Service: Tie. The service on both was great, but nothing particularly different.
- Wi-Fi: JAL wins. Their Wi-Fi was insanely fast, while ANA’s didn’t work.
That being said, ANA is still an incredible airline. If you’re flying either one, you’re in for a great experience. But if I had to choose, JAL takes the win this time.