Most really good deals to Tokyo recently have come with relatively long layovers in China, but what if you want (or need) to fly directly to Japan? Typical prices of ~$700 are available widely through next spring. However, a nice deal is available for premium economy on American Airlines: $999 round trip. Considering that PE usually runs about $500 more than main cabin, this is not a bad deal. This also works with main cabin seats outbound and premium economy returning to L.A. for $150 more than a regular economy fare.
AA’s premium economy seats on the 777-300 ER come with 19″ wide seats and a spacious 38″ pitch. Amenities include priority check-in and security, priority baggage claim, and an amenity kit. While AA touts elevated dining and complimentary alcohol, most airlines provide free drinks to Asia (though maybe not “premium” brands). But that’s not really the big deal: the bigger seat and the direct flight is the draw here.
Like almost all economy flights to Asia, both main cabin and premium economy come with 2 checked bags in addition to your carry-on and seat choice. The main cabin fares are widely available through next April, but the premium economy round trip is much more limited. However, the one-way return in PE can be found on many dates with expensive round trip fares posted. You can book the round trip directly through AA or with OTAs, but the one-way PE deal is only available through American’s website. So if you’re looking for a comfortable ride to Tokyo anytime between now and next spring, take advantage of this fare now.
Sample Route
- Departure: Los Angeles
- Stops: None
- Arrival: Tokyo (Haneda)
How to Book
- Follow link for sample dates or search your favorite OTA / Google Flights for departure and destination
Travel Dates
- PE: select dates Sep – April; main cabin widely available September through April
- 7-day stay required
Where to Stay in Tokyo
(SEE ALSO: Best Hotels in Tokyo on Point from 4 Major Hotel Chains)
Things to Do in Tokyo
(SEE ALSO: 3 Ways to do an International – Domestic Transfer at Tokyo Haneda Airport)
Good luck and happy flying!
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Dan Miller travels with his wife and 6 (SIX!) children. He loves to help families travel for free / cheap, especially larger families. If you are looking for help, drop him an email at 
flying AA Premium econ is not much of an imporvement. Now JAL
YES!!!
I’ve yet to fly AA’s premium economy, but I would be tempted by that pitch at that price. If I weren’t dedicated to Star Alliance for the near future, either JAL or AA PE would be on my immediate radar.