Japan Airlines JAL (JL) has confirmed its Northern Hemisphere winter schedule, where it will deploy state-of-the-art Airbus A350-1000 on its route between Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND) and New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).

Currently, the airline operates its Boeing 777-300ER on the 13,500 km (8,388 mi) flight, which will also boost up to twice daily over the summer. Japan released a statement to the media on February 2:

"With the introduction of the Airbus A350-1000, we are developing new cabin specifications for international flights to provide a new unprecedented experience for each and every one of our customers."

Source: Flightradar24.com

Changes for Japan Airlines

The oneworld partner will also change from using Terminal 1 at New York JFK to Terminal 8 from May 28, as it looks to deepen its relationship with partner American Airlines, noting: "This will shorten the minimum connecting time required for American Airlines-operated flights within the US and to cities in Central and South America."

Photo: J O via Wikimedia Commons

Upgrade from the 777

Japan Airlines currently operates a daily direct flight from Haneda to JFK, with its 777-300(ER) product. The current configuration of the Boeing seats 244 passengers, of which 147 are in economy, 40 placed in premium economy, 49 in business, and eight up in first class. With the introduction of the Airbus A350-1000, this will typically accommodate between 350 and 410 passengers if accommodated in a three-class configuration.

Photo: Japan Airlines

A350-900s and A350-1000s for the airline

Dating back to 2013, Japan Airlines made the decision to order its first Airbus A350, planning to replace the carriers aging Boeing 777 fleet. Overall, the airline ordered 18 A350-900s and 13 A350-1000s, in addition to 25 purchase options.

The first A350-900 arrived at JAL's facilities in September 2019, which has predominantly been used for its domestic operations. Two A350-1000s are expected to be delivered this year and are poised to take on the JFK route, as nine more of the aircraft type are expected by the end of 2025. The airline will look to launch these on its flagship routes to New York and London Heathrow.

Photo: Japan Airlines

Reducing carbon emissions

In a move from the airline to reduce its carbon footprint, JAL expects the new aircraft to reduce carbon emissions and overall fuel consumption. Japan Airlines is also committed to sustainable inflight menus by sourcing local ingredients.

JAL Agriport

The airline's affiliated farms grow fresh, crunchy lettuce, which is used on selected Japan Airlines Business and economy class flights. In the Fukui Prefecture, a farm & factory is ASIAGAP-certified, which means they continue to maintain high food safety standards, worker rights, and environmental protections.

Sources: ch-aviation, Aviancionline