NH vs JL · 2026 comparison
ANA vs JAL
ANA and JAL are closely matched on the things we compare. Here's how they compare on bags, fees, comfort, reliability and loyalty.
Verified Oct 17, 2026By Steven MoHow we check Report a correction
ANA
NHNo clear category wins
JAL
JLNo clear category wins
Quick verdict
ANA and JAL are closely matched on the things we compare. Both include a carry-on on every fare.
- Carry-on size
- ANA: 55 × 40 × 25 cm · JAL: 55 × 40 × 25 cm
- Carry-on on the cheapest fare
- ANA: Included on every fare · JAL: Included on every fare
- First checked bag (regular economy)
- ANA: 2 free bags · JAL: 2 free bags
Side by side
| ANA | JAL | |
|---|---|---|
| Bags | ||
| Carry-on size | 55 × 40 × 25 cm | 55 × 40 × 25 cm |
| Carry-on on the cheapest fare | Included on every fare | Included on every fare |
| Carry-on weight limit | 10 kg (22 lb) | 10 kg (22 lb) |
| Personal item | Must fit under the seat | Must fit under the seat |
| First checked bag (regular economy) | 2 free bags | 2 free bags |
| Network | ||
| Alliance | Star Alliance | oneworld |
| Loyalty program | ANA Mileage Club | JAL Mileage Bank |
| Main hubs | HND, NRT | HND, NRT |
Highlighted values are better for travelers. Fees are for U.S. domestic economy flights; on-time data is 2025 U.S. DOT figures for each airline's own flights.
Bags and fees
Both airlines allow a carry-on up to 55 × 40 × 25 cm (21.7 × 15.7 × 9.8 in).
Both include it on their cheapest fares.
Carry-on weight limits: 10 kg (22 lb) on ANA, 10 kg (22 lb) on JAL.
Personal items: anything that fits under the seat on ANA, and anything that fits under the seat on JAL.
ANA includes two bags with Economy Value on flights between North America and Japan, and JAL includes two bags with Economy on flights between the U.S. and Japan.
Basic economy
ANA (Economy): Every fare includes the carry-on and personal item (10 kg combined).
JAL (Economy): Every fare includes the carry-on and personal item (10 kg combined).
Loyalty and where they fly
ANA is in Star Alliance and JAL is in oneworld.
Loyalty programs: ANA Mileage Club (ANA) and JAL Mileage Bank (JAL).
ANA's main hubs are Tokyo Haneda (HND), Tokyo Narita (NRT). JAL's are Tokyo Haneda (HND), Tokyo Narita (NRT). The best choice often comes down to which airline flies nonstop from your airport.
Which should you book?
Choose ANA if you want…
- to earn and use Star Alliance miles and status
- nonstops from HND, NRT
Choose JAL if you want…
- to earn and use oneworld miles and status
- nonstops from HND, NRT
On a route both fly, the cheaper ticket isn't always the cheaper trip: add the bags you'll actually bring, and check the fare rules before you book.
ANA vs JAL FAQ
It depends on what matters most to you. ANA and JAL are closely matched on the things we compare. If they fly the same route, compare the total price with bags included.
Keep comparing
Bag rules and fees
Sources
Last verified Oct 17, 2026. Airlines change their rules without notice, so confirm with the airline before you fly.
- ANA (All Nippon Airways) official baggage policy
- Upgraded Points: carry-on size chart for 63 airlines (updated May 16, 2026)
- Japan Airlines official baggage policy
Read how we collect and check this data, or tell us if something's out of date.
Deals on ANA, JAL and more
Whichever airline you prefer, we'll email you when fares from your home airports drop well below normal.
Free plan available · 14-day free Premium+ trial · Cancel anytime