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We do not have a strong allegiance to any particular airline when it comes to our travels, so our decision is primarily influenced by the cost and the cabin’s seat pitch. Given that our family resides in Japan, we frequently travel to Japan. Over the recent years, we have opted for various airlines for our trips including Singapore Premium Economy, JAL Premium Economy, JAL Economy, United Premium Plus and on this occasion, we chose United Airlines Economy and United Airlines Economy Plus for our flights.

CHECK-IN

Check-in at both Los Angeles Airport (LAX) and Narita Airport (NRT) during our travel dates in late May and early June were efficiently managed with minimal waiting times. One of the primary factors contributing to the smooth process was Crystal’s Premier Silver Status with United Airlines.

Prior to our arrival at LAX, we were pleasantly surprised to receive a text message from United providing us with a specific door number to a drop-off location for our luggage. Having already checked in our bags online, we knew exactly where to go within the airport to quickly drop them off.

When we reached the designated area, we were relieved to find no line, and a helpful staff member promptly tagged and collected our luggage in a matter of seconds. The efficiency of the process left us slightly apprehensive, wondering if we had missed something amidst the swift service. Such quick and smooth assistance is a rare treat, particularly at LAX.

With the Premier Silver Status, we enjoyed the benefit of a higher baggage allowance of 70 pounds compared to the regular 50 pounds limit. This proved to be extremely helpful as our luggage exceeded the standard weight limit with all the shopping we did in Japan. Additionally, our bags were among the first to be delivered at the baggage claim carousel.

BOARDING

Similar to many other major airlines, the boarding procedure typically commences with pre-boarding for passengers requiring special assistance, followed by the subsequent boarding groups.

Being holders of the Premier Silver Status, we found ourselves placed in Group 2, benefitting from a designated line alongside Group 1. The remaining boarding groups were called after Group 2 and did not have an assigned area to line up.

MAIN CABIN

Economy LAX - NRT

For our flight from Los Angeles to Narita, we booked economy class seats after researching online to ensure a seat pitch similar to JAL’s. Upon settling into our seats, we were surprised by the limited legroom, which seemed noticeably less spacious than JAL’s economy class. It definitely was not what we were expecting.

Candy found herself squeezed in the middle seat, feeling cramped and uneasy, but fortunately, an aisle seat behind us was available for her to switch to. Avoiding a potentially unpleasant experience, Candy managed to secure a more comfortable spot just before take-off.

Economy Plus NRT - LAX

For our return flight, our experience was a little different. After completing the online check-in process, we received an email offering the option to upgrade to an Economy Plus seat for an additional $250.00. Without hesitation, we purchased the upgrade and secured aisle seats for both of us.

Stepping into the Economy Plus section, the seat pitch closely resembled that of JAL's economy class. There’s definitely a noticeable contrast between United's standard Economy and the upgraded Economy Plus seats. The additional legroom allowed our large backpacks to be stowed effortlessly under the seats and securing overhead bin space for our Quince carry-on suitcases was a breeze.

Entertainment 

There was an array of movie and TV options available during our flight, providing a diverse selection for entertainment. One feature we particularly enjoyed was the ability to save a list of movies to our favorites, simplifying the process of finding movies we wanted to watch. It’s a long flight, so you’ll definitely be watching more than one movie.

The airline headphones provided were flimsy and lacked noise cancellation, which can put a damper in your viewing experience. To avoid this issue, we opted to use our own headphones. If you have wireless headphones, we highly recommend getting an adapter. Our favorite is the Airfly adapter and it is really easy to pair your wireless headphones to the inflight entertainment. 

Pillow & Blanket

The pillow provided on our flight stood out with its unique design — a departure from the conventional rectangular shape, it was crafted in the form of a neck pillow. The blanket was wrapped in plastic and exceptionally thin. It was almost transparent and didn’t really provide much warmth. If you’re sensitive to cold flights, we recommend dressing in layers or carrying your own blanket to stay warm and comfortable.

Snacks

The snacks provided onboard are quite simple and nothing special. It might be a good idea to bring along a few of your own snacks for variety. In case you get hungry mid-flight, the same snacks are available in one of the galleys for you to help yourself to.

Bathroom

The bathroom was relatively small, yet standard in size for aircrafts. Throughout the flight, the bathroom remained pretty well maintained, ensuring a pleasant experience for passengers.

IN-FLIGHT MEALS

Unfortunately, neither of us found any enjoyment in the meals we were served. They lacked flavor and their unappetizing appearance didn't help. Thankfully, we had eaten a couple of rice balls before boarding our flight. Note to self: Bring our own light meals if we choose to fly United in the future.

LAX - NRT

Dinner consisted of a chicken dish that turned out to be disappointingly dry and bland. The only item we found enjoyable was the cookie. Our breakfast experience wasn't much better, as the french toast appeared unappetizing, and we were perplexed by the choice to pair it with a croissant - a rather unusual combination. The only saving grace from the meal was the mixed fruits that we managed to enjoy.

NRT - LAX

Dinner featured a penne pasta dish that was somewhat edible, providing a tiny improvement from the disappointing chicken meal served on our previous flight. The dessert that followed was a delightful traditional Japanese confection known as manju. For breakfast, we were served a tofu udon stir fry, which was far better than the french toast.

FINAL THOUGHTS

We both agreed that we would prefer to choose a different airline for our next flight, especially if the fares are similar. The seating arrangement left much to be desired, and the food was exceptionally disappointing. However, we were pleasantly surprised by the friendly airline staff, a refreshing change from the typically mediocre service we encounter with US carriers.

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