Happy New Year!
I’m @owncolorstravel a blogger based in Okinawa, focused on sharing travel and lifestyle tips to help those planning overseas trips.
Today, I’ll be sharing the best seat choice I’ve ever had for long-haul flights of over 10 hours in economy class. I hope this will be helpful for your travel preparations!
Recommended Seats for JAL International Economy Class
For domestic flights, the travel time in the air isn’t particularly painful, no matter where you’re seated—unless you have specific preferences. However, when it comes to the long journey from Europe to Japan, I carefully considered my seat selection for the return flight during my Europe trip.
The flight from Helsinki to Haneda takes approximately 13 hours and 35 minutes—a true long-haul experience.
On my way to Europe, I used JAL mileage points for a business class ticket, so I enjoyed the luxury of a flatbed seat and a comfortable in-flight experience. But for the return journey, I braced myself for a marathon of flights: Amsterdam to Helsinki, Helsinki to Haneda, and finally, Haneda to Okinawa. It was a sky-high odyssey that felt like a travel endurance test!
For the return leg, I booked a one-way ticket from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Okinawa Naha Airport. In economy class, I opted for a paid seat selection in the front section of the cabin, using JAL’s advance seat reservation service. The cost was €93.50
When booking international one-way tickets on JAL’s website, prices for flights departing from the Eurozone are displayed in euros.
I chose a paid seat to ensure the most comfortable experience possible, even in economy class.
・Inside JAL Flight JL048 on the Boeing 787-9: A Look at the Paid Advance Seat Reservation
The seat I initially selected was 45A, a window seat. I thought it would be a good choice, but it turned out that the emergency exit door slightly protrudes into the leg space, creating a sense of tightness. If someone is seated next to you, it can feel a bit cramped for a paid seat. (The image below might make it easier to visualize this.) ← You can’t fully stretch your legs.
Before taking my seat, a cabin crew member informed me that the four-seat row was relatively empty on this flight and kindly suggested I move there.
When I actually sat in the new seat, the open space next to me felt wonderfully freeing.
As a result, the seats I most recommend are 46D or 46G.
If enjoying the view from the window is your priority, you might want to consider other seat options.
When choosing an aisle seat, it’s often for the convenience of easier access to the restroom.
The paid advance seat reservation is characterized by its spacious legroom, offering a relaxed seating experience. The view from the seat looks like this, with no sense of confinement—it’s truly great.
Just look at all this space!
This seat allowed me to use the in-flight footrest, which made it possible to fully stretch my legs. It really made me realize how much of a difference it makes to have one!
Since no one was seated next to me, I used it boldly. However, if there had been a passenger beside me, I would have been more considerate and used it as originally planned with the window seat. Keep in mind that footrest usage may have specific conditions depending on the airline, so be sure to check in advance!
The slippers, compression socks, and footrest I brought on this trip proved to be incredibly useful and worth every penny. They made a big difference during the flight!
Also, I highly recommend wearing a hoodie on board—it’s perfect for staying comfortable.
JAL flights have a lovely scent in the cabin.
I thought I had prepared thoroughly for spending time on the plane, but during this trip, I realized that hand cream is essential due to the dryness on board.
Scents like lavender are incredibly calming, helping you relax while also serving as a great remedy for dryness.
While amenities provided at hotels can come in handy, it’s a good idea to stash some in your carry-on bag for the flight—you’ll be glad you did!
JAL International Economy Class In-Flight Meals: Europe Routes
I love JAL’s in-flight meals in economy class too!
Of course, the menu and service differ from business class, and they also change depending on the route and season, but JAL’s in-flight meals are consistently high in satisfaction. It’s one of the things I look forward to with every trip!
JAL’s in-flight meals for Europe-bound economy class flights are thoughtfully prepared to provide both taste and comfort during long-haul journeys. Passengers can enjoy a blend of Japanese and Western dishes, crafted in collaboration with renowned chefs and catering teams.
Meals typically feature:
- Japanese Cuisine: Options may include rice, grilled fish or chicken, miso soup, and pickles for an authentic taste of Japan.
- Western Cuisine: Pasta, meat dishes, and salads with fresh ingredients and flavorful sauces are often available.
- Side Dishes & Desserts: Expect fresh fruit, yogurt, or Japanese sweets to complement the main course.
- Beverages: A variety of drinks, including JAL’s original Sky Time Kiwi, coffee, tea, wine, and sake, are available.
Menus may vary by season, route, and special collaborations, making each flight experience unique. Passengers with dietary preferences or restrictions can request special meals in advance through JAL’s website.
If you’re traveling on the Europe route, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a meal that reflects JAL’s dedication to quality and hospitality.
Since there is no monitor in the front, the individual monitors are designed to be pulled out from the side of the seat, near the armrest.
The northern route offers a view of Greenland from above. This majestic landscape of glaciers and icebergs is a rare sight you can only experience on this route.
If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights during the winter season.
Thanks to a kind cabin crew announcement, I was able to enjoy this stunning view from the sky, making for a truly comfortable and memorable flight.
