Flight review: JAL business class Tokyo to Busan B737-800

This flight review is about the 2 hour business class flight with JAL between Tokyo Haneda and Busan. The flight was during the summer 2018, and it was booked via British Airways for only 9000 avios + 13€ surcharges.

Aircraft

We flew a B737-800 with 12 business class seats in a 2-2 configuration

Boarding

Boarding was done fast, they had one lane for their top-tier status members, one lane for mid-tier status members & business class as well as an economy lane.

Seats

The seats were really good for a domestic aircraft as you can see in the pictures. The recline was fair, leg room more than sufficient, you had a foldable table in one armrest as well as an entertainment screen in the other one. The entertainment system needs some improvement but was okay for a short flight. Each seat also had an international power socket.

WiFi was available free of charge and surprisingly the speed was really good.

Food

The food really surprised us in a very positive way. As you can see in the pictures, the food looked great and it also tasted the way it looked, good and fresh. Rarely did I enjoy my meal on a short-haul flight that much. In terms of drinks, the basic choice was available.

Staff

Staff was very friendly and effective. We were fully satisfied on that side. Even hot towels were provided immediately after departure which was a nice touch.

Amenities

For this short flight, slippers, a blanket and even a decent pillow were provided. Furthermore some very basic headphones were available as well as some tooth brushes in the lavatory.

Conclusion

We enjoyed every aspect of this short flight except from maybe the entertainment system. From the seats, to the food over the amenities, this is how a short-haul flight should be. All european carriers are miles away from giving their customers such a great experience on a short-haul flight. Considering that you can book these flights on JAL with only 9000 avios and negligible surcharges, you can consider it a bargain.

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