ANA Economy Review: Seattle to Tokyo Haneda to Kuala Lumpur

Quick take

I flew ANA economy from Seattle to Tokyo Haneda and connected on to Kuala Lumpur, with a paid advance seat. ANA’s long-haul economy has a strong reputation, and the 787 cabin stays comfortable over 10-plus hours.

Where to book: ANA Economy (Seattle–Tokyo Haneda–Kuala Lumpur) on the official site (typically Economy one-way often in the $400s to $500s; advance seat selection about $30 to $40).

What it is

The 787 economy cabin runs 3-3-3 with around 31 inches of pitch, a pillow and blanket at every seat and seatback screens. Meals lean Japanese, and Haneda is a compact, efficient airport for the onward connection to Southeast Asia.

Where it fits for a remote worker

Moving from the US to Southeast Asia is one long day. A calm cabin, decent food and a smooth Haneda transfer mean you arrive able to work within a day instead of losing three to jet lag.

“Pay for the seat on a long-haul flight. Twelve hours is too long to gamble.”

Reggie R.

How it compares

• Japan Airlines. Similar quality, slightly more legroom on some aircraft.
• Korean Air via Seoul. Comparable routing and service.
• US carriers. Often cheaper, less consistent economy.

Surviving the long haul to Asia

Build a comfort kit: seat cushion, blackout mask, earplugs, fleece hoodie and electrolytes. On arrival in KL, Chambers Residence works for a month.

Price and value

Expect to pay Economy one-way often in the $400s to $500s; advance seat selection about $30 to $40, though prices on the official site move often, so check the current listing before buying. Excellent value for what it does: one of the most comfortable ways to cross the Pacific in economy.

How I scored it

The 4.5-out-of-5 score combines my own use with what buyers report across retailers, weighed on value, build quality and how well it fits a travel and remote-work life. Read the full method on the editorial policy page.

3 tips to get the most out of it

1. Pick a seat near the front of economy. Meal service reaches you first.
2. Sleep on Tokyo time on the first leg. It shortens jet lag in Southeast Asia.
3. Keep connection time at Haneda reasonable. Transfers are smooth but security still takes time.

FAQ

Is ANA economy good?

It’s widely rated among the best economy products.

How is the Haneda connection?

Compact and efficient.

Is advance seat selection worth it?

On long-haul flights, usually yes.

Who it’s for (and who should skip it)

Good for travelers heading from the US to Asia who value comfort. Skip it if the cheapest fare is all that matters. For the bigger picture, the Long-Haul and Packing Survival Guide puts this alongside packing, sleep and comfort on long trips.

Bottom line

One of the most comfortable ways to cross the Pacific in economy.