Flying First Class in the sky is a dream come true. Yet, flying First Class in All Nippon Airways (ANA’s) new “suite” is an even sweeter dream that can become a reality for travel-hackers – if you’re diligent. Admittedly, one of the biggest reasons I decided to book my trip to Japan was because I managed to snag myself round-trip tickets in ANA First Class.
ANA calls their newly refreshed First Class cabin “The Suite,” and it’s a huge step up from their dated “The Square” cabin. It’s not surprising that this product is in hot demand, so being able to secure a round-trip flight (for two) to Japan was a huge win.
This is my first time flying in First Class and even though it hasn’t been a perfect experience, it’s still a “pinch-me” moment. Let me show you exactly what you’ll get if you put in the legwork and book yourself a ticket.
Booking (8/10)
Since ANA is part of Star Alliance, there are a few different ways to find yourself in one of the best First Class products in the sky.
Aeroplan: 110K points one-way and ~$35 (USD) in taxes and fees per person.
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club: 145K points round trip, 72.5K points one-way and ~$100 in taxes and fees per person.
Virgin Australia Velocity: 114K points and ~$35 in taxes and fees one-way per person. (Keep in mind that you won’t be able to connect onwards with Virgin Atlantic Flying Club. This option is the best in terms of points cost and if you have a one-way itinerary.)
You could also use United MileagePlus to redeem miles for ANA First Class; however, it’s important to note that United MileagePlus does’t have a published award chart, so the point costs can be unpredictable. From experience, United MileagePlus will cost around 121K miles and ~$44 in taxes and fees per person.
For this trip, I used Aeroplan points to book my flight. Aeroplan points are relatively easy to earn and redeem. The website isn’t faultless, but it’s functional. I also need to get from my home airport in Canada to San Francisco. Starting my itinerary from Vancouver (YVR) actually reduces the points cost. It normally costs 110K points one-way, but hidden city ticketing alleviates some of that cost. Win-win!
In the end, I pay 88.4K Aeroplan points and $80 in taxes and fees one-way per person.
Check-In (6/10)
Once past the simple check-in at the Vancouver airport (YVR), I go through priority security and head to the lounge in under 10 minutes. I miss out on the check-in experience at San Francisco (SFO) since my itinerary starts in Vancouver, but I imagine it would be hassle-free at the First Class check-in counters as well.
Those who like to arrive early should note that the ANA check-in counters only open three hours before departure. Since the flight departs at 01:20, you’ll have to wait until 22:20 to check bags. That means you won’t be able to visit the United Polaris lounge SFO, which closes at the same time, and you’ll have to wait in the terminal.
Lounge (8/10)
Departing San Francisco (SFO), passengers flying in long-haul business class or First Class on a Star Alliance carrier have coveted access to the fantastic United Airlines Polaris Lounge.This lounge is well-regarded in the travel community for good reason. Yet, even with its strict entry requirements, the sheer amount of premium passengers at SFO leads to crowding at times.
Upon entering, I head straight to book a shower slot since those can get snapped up quickly. I’m advised that it’s best to place my reservation for the dining room, then take my shower right away, before the lounge starts to fill up. The timing worked out perfectly because once I’m done freshening up, I’m informed that my table inside the dining room is ready.
The dining options are a highlight of the lounge. It offers passengers a complimentary à la carte dining experience, instead of the traditional buffet style of lounge food. While it’s a fantastic concept and the presentation is stunning, the food was just okay, not great.
I sampled a few things off the menu such as the Polaris Signature Burger and the pasta primavera but also tried to save some space for the food on my much anticipated flight.
Unfortunately, the Polaris Lounge closes at 22:30 and my flight departs at 1:20, so I spend the rest of the time getting my steps in before the long haul flight by wandering around the International Terminal.
Cabin and Layout (10/10)
It’s finally boarding time. I’m one of the first passengers to board, and the entire walk down the jet bridge feels like another “pinch-me” moment. I board through the second set of doors, turn left, and stare in awe at my “seat.”
ANA’s new First Class cabin can only be found on 9 777-300ERs and is laid out in a 1-2-1 layout, taking up rows 1 and 2 at the very front of the cabin.
The eight First Class suites are surprisingly generous. They look modern and sleek against the white walls of the cabin. The seats are mostly a pale shade of grey, accented with rich dark wood. Around the cabin are pops of blue which pair well with the blue ambient lighting throughout the space making it appear modern and fresh.
Every suite has direct aisle access and takes up three windows each, giving way to a great view outside. I recommend solo travellers to pick any of “A” or “K” seats along the window, while couples might prefer the “D” and “G” seat pairs in order to be seated together. The middle partition lowers so that companion travellers are able to have a conversation.
However, I recommend selecting a middle seat and window seat as a couple, then you’ll get the best of both worlds and you can swap seats whenever you desire an outside view. And you never know when you might just get lucky enough to see the Northern Lights!
Seat (10/10)
Moving onto the star of the show:the seat. It features two closing doors and a mini closet with hangers for jackets. After takeoff, the doors can be closed for the utmost privacy.
Upon sitting down, I’m immediately struck by the sheer size of the in-flight entertainment (IFE) monitor. It’s a bright and crisp 4K display spanning 43 inches, larger than some home TVs!
Just under the IFE is a wooden folding tray table that’s big enough for two to dine. A large grey ottoman tucked under the tray table can be used for buddy dining, a great feature for couples. The ottoman has its own seatbelt just in case of turbulence.
To the right is a deep storage container, and on the wall next to it is a warm accent light and a dining light. On the left are more pockets for storage, as well as charging outlets, HDMI ports, and a headphone jack.
Above is the IFE controller, seat adjustment panel, and a master switch that controls all three window shades automatically, with the ease of a button.
The seat itself is 34 inches wide and converts into an 81 inch long bed. The seat adjustment panel has three preset positions: 1. takeoff and landing (upright), 2. lounge (0G), 3. bed (lie-flat). There’s also a dial that takes the seat through its full range of motion and can be stopped at any point along the way. In addition, there are also three controls that govern the seat forward and backward, lumbar support, and leg rest support. On the bottom row are three light controls for the overhead light, reading lights, and dining table light.
Each “suite” also comes with an individual air nozzle which is a big plus. I prefer sleeping cold, so being able to customize my temperature helps the journey feel even more luxurious.
Finally, at the press of a button, the pocket pops out to reveal a mirror. No need to visit a public lavatory to freshen up!
Bed (10/10)
After my meal (more on that later), the flight attendant turned down the seat and made it into a cozy bed in the sky. Of course, I lie down with a feeble attempt at sleeping. I’m way too excited about the flight and the upcoming trip so I get maybe 30 minutes total of shut-eye.
That’s not to detract from the quality of the bed. When the seat is converted, it’s supremely comfortable, and it almost feels like sleeping at home. ANA provides a soft mattress pad, blanket, and an additional comforter. Given the size of the seat (now bed), I’m able to sleep on my side comfortably without banging my legs against the tray table.
Entertainment (10/10)
Give me one of the best IFE displays in commercial aviation, and I will still keep mine on the moving map or the onboard cameras the entire time. I love that the 777-300ERs are fitted with cameras. It makes landing and take-off a spectacular sight.
The English movie and TV menu isn’t large. It’s a mix of well-known blockbusters like the latest Marvel movie, and films that I haven’t heard of before.
In-flight Wi-Fi is available for free to First Class passengers. The Wi-Fi isn’t blazing fast, but it keeps me connected to my friends and family throughout the entire flight.
Finally, one of the best amenities that ANA First Class provides are the noise-cancelling headphones. They are Sony WH-1000XM3s, one of the best on the market. Sure, they aren’t the newest model, but they easily beat the generic headphones that other airlines offer.
The stunning sound perfectly complements the quality IFE, and I love that ANA clearly puts thought into this detail. Other First Class cabins need to take note from ANA and step up their audio game!
Lavatory (10/10)
The two First Class lavatories are situated at the front of the cabin just behind the cockpit door. The one on the left is larger than the one on the right, and both are kept spotless for the entire flight. The flight attendants really go above and beyond, to the point where the toilet paper is always neatly folded into a triangle every time I step inside.
Once inside, you have ample space to change with a thoughtful step-stool that folds down so that you can change without having to touch the bathroom floor.
Both lavatories are also equipped with Japanese-style toilets including a bidet function which is extra handy on an airplane.
Lastly, there’s a basket of amenities such as a dental kit, mouthwash, hand towels, and scent sprays for passengers to freshen up at any point during the trip.
Amenity Kit (10/10)
Prior to push back, a flight attendant comes by with a big basket of ANA amenities ranging from earplugs to socks to masks. Of course, I pick out a few items to add to the stash of goodies that I’ll be bringing home.
Unpacking the Globe Trotter amenity kit which comes with each seat, I find an eye mask, ear plugs, dental kit, and three bottles of skin care items from The Ginza, a minimalist tailor-made premium skincare line.
Along with the blue and white amenity kit, there’s a set of pajamas in a cloth carrying bag, slippers, and a zip-up cardigan. Note that you’re encouraged to bring the slippers, amenity kit, and pajamas home; however, the cardigan is not meant to be taken with you.
If the pajamas are not the right fit, you’re able to ask the flight attendants for a different size. Not only are they stylish, but they are also extra cozy and 100% cotton. The pajamas are the gift that keeps on giving; I still wear them around the house all the time.
Food and Beverage (6/10)
Pre-Departure
After I take my seat, still star-stuck at the luxurious amenities, the purser offers me a choice of champagne or orange juice. I ask kindly if I can have ANA’s signature drink, Aromatic Kabosu instead, a tangy citrusy beverage. She happily obliges and brings me a glass of Kabosu to start the journey.
At first taste, it’s quite heavy in citrus. It’s similar to lemonade but with more tang. Kabosu is made from kabosu juice (a green citrus fruit, akin to lime) and sweetened with a hint of honey.
Keep in mind that ANA Kabosu isn’t limited to First or business class; you can ask for the drink in economy or premium economy. If you haven’t tried it yet, you need to next time you find yourself onboard ANA.
“Dinner” Meal Service
On this flight, there are two meal services: a quick dinner and a pre-arrival meal. Due to the overnight itinerary, ANA serves its reduced meal service, which lacks caviar, Hibiki 21, and features a smaller menu.
Nevertheless, the dining experience onboard ANA First Class should still be exceptional. At least, that’s what I’m expecting. The menu on my flight had several options.
The post-takeoff meal service happens around two hours after takeoff and starts with an amuse-bouche of smoked salmon, smoked duck, cheese, and pepper bar. None of the dishes blow me away, but I do enjoy all four amuses. The smoked salmon isn’t as fishy as I feared. The smoked duck with pear, cheese, and cranberry are novel pairings, but I find them pleasant and refreshing.
Next, I sample the “Light Dishes Anytime” menu: Angus Beef Cheeseburger, Rice Bowl with Beef Fillet Steak, and Japanese chain, IPPUDO’s “Pla-ton” Ramen.
The burger presentation could use some work, but it tastes better than it looks. The patty is juicy, and the kewpie mayo complements the BBQ sauce and ketchup well. Ending my late night snack with beef fillet steak donburi rice bowl. This particular dish is not impressive. The beef is dry and tough, and I don’t end up finishing it. I’ve had the Pla-ton ramen before, and it tastes just as good on this flight as last time. For an in-flight snack, it’s perfectly delicious, warm, and cozy.
On to the beverage menu. It’s not an ANA First Class review if it doesn’t mention Hibiki Whisky. Even though our flight doesn’t carry the coveted Hibiki 21, we try Hibiki 17 which comes in a cute tiny bottle.
For reference, Hibiki 21 costs $1,300+ for a 750mL bottle, whereas Hibiki 17 is $1,000+ for the same 750mL bottle. As someone with an alcohol intolerance, the Hibiki tastes a little like paint thinner to me. Not to offend whiskey lovers; it just isn’t for me. I have no doubt that aged Hibiki deserves the hype that it gets.
Personally, I’ll take Kabosu and Krug Grande Cuvee champagne as my alcohol of choice. Then I begin to wonder how they’d taste mixed together? Does it become a fancy Japanese mimosa?
Overall, it’s disappointing to fly in First Class with a reduced meal service. The “dinner” is basically an amuse-bouche plus the snack menu. Most of the items were lackluster at best.
Pre-Arrival Breakfast Meal Service
After realizing that I’m way too restless to sleep, I commit to staying awake until night falls in Tokyo. Considering we’re due to land at 04:30, I’m going to have a long day ahead of me.
Turning my attention to the drink menu, I decide to get caffeinated, ordering an Earl Grey tea, illy Espresso, and illy Cappuccino. Along with the coffees, the flight attendant brings some small chocolates and sweets. None of them stand out, but they serve their purpose of keeping me awake.
Then, pre-arrival meal service starts. There’s a Japanese Washoku menu which features a typical Japanese breakfast, as well as a Western breakfast option.
The Japanese breakfast starts with Kobachi, consisting of marinated spinach, himeji mushroom, and snow crab meat. The Shusai (main) is grilled amberjack with Saikyo miso. This is paired with steamed rice, miso soup, and Japanese pickles.
The Western breakfast has scrambled eggs with porcini mushrooms, bacon, and broccolini. Accompanied with bread and a variety of jams along with yogurt.
Though other travellers might enjoy this healthier and more refined breakfast offerings, they just don’t suit my tastes.
Staff & Service (8/10)
The flight attendants on my flight are great, but to be honest, I’ve had better service on ANA before which happened to be in business class. If I have to summarize the service on this flight, it would be: professional, nice, and efficient.
All of the cabin crew have decent English ability; there’s no severe language barrier. Personally, I prefer flight attendants who are more interactive and humorous. On a previous ANA business class flight out of YVR, the flight attendants had been a lot more personable and chatty. Maybe because this is an overnight departure, they don’t want to disrupt anyone’s rest, but throughout the flight it seems like they’re just checking boxes off a list . Don’t get me wrong. The crew are polite and quick to address any concerns; I just feel like they could’ve been a bit more genuine and delightful.
Final Thoughts
As my introduction to First Class, ANA “The Suite” First Class sets an extremely high bar. I can’t find any reason to complain about the flight experience, other than the reduced meal service. An overnight flight in First Class should still serve caviar and at least provide a full dinner menu.
The service is polite, but aloof, and I can see how other passengers might prefer this over a chatty crew, especially if they are travelling for work or want to sleep, unlike myself.
Food aside, ANA’s new First Class is outstanding. The hard product is hard to beat. Combine the crisp 4K IFE with quality noise-cancelling headphones, comfortable pajamas, and a well-stocked amenity kit, and it makes for a top-tier experience. “The Suite” might not be as glamorous as Emirates or Etihad First Class, but it exudes understated luxury with thoughtful design, which is the best kind of luxury.
Overall, 85/100 is a fantastic total, only marred by the poor menu choices on an overnight departure. The hard product scored perfectly which speaks to how amazing the in-flight experience truly is. For those who are able to snag a daytime departure, I have no doubt it’ll be unequivocally one of the best flights of your life.