Japan Airlines Upgrades Haneda Airport Experience as New First Class and JGC Counters Reopen for Premium Travellers

Written By: Samadrita Mukherjee

Samadrita Mukherjee

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July 24, 2026 06:18 GMT+5:30

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JAL has reopened its renovated First Class and JAL Global Club (JGC) exclusive counters at Tokyo Haneda Airport Terminal 1 North Wing on July 24, 2026, giving eligible travellers a refreshed premium check-in experience and easier access to dedicated airport services. The upgrade is part of Japan Airlines’ wider renovation project at Haneda Terminal 1 designed to improve convenience, efficiency and comfort for premium passengers.

The reopening is expected to benefit passengers flying in Japan Airlines’ premium cabins and members of the JAL Global Club, who rely on dedicated airport facilities for faster check-in and a more seamless journey before departure.

The improvement comes as airports worldwide continue upgrading premium facilities to meet changing traveller expectations, with passengers increasingly looking for smoother airport experiences beyond the flight itself.

Why This Matters for Travellers Flying Through Tokyo Haneda

Airport journeys often begin long before boarding. Check-in areas, security access and passenger flow can significantly affect the overall travel experience, especially for frequent flyers and premium customers.

The renovated JAL facilities at Haneda Terminal 1 aim to make the airport process more convenient for travellers who use dedicated services.

How the upgraded facility benefits passengers

• Faster premium check-in: Eligible First Class passengers and JGC members can use dedicated counters designed for a smoother departure process.
• Improved airport convenience: Updated facilities help reduce unnecessary waiting and create a more comfortable pre-flight experience.
• Enhanced premium journey: The upgraded counters strengthen the connection between ground services and JAL’s onboard premium experience.
• Better passenger flow: Renovation work forms part of wider efforts to modernise airport facilities at Terminal 1.

For frequent travellers, improvements at check-in and security areas can make a significant difference, particularly during busy travel periods.

What Has Changed at JAL Haneda Terminal 1 North Wing

Japan Airlines has completed the renovation of its dedicated First Class and JAL Global Club counters located in the North Wing of Haneda Airport Terminal 1. The counters reopened on July 24, 2026, following a temporary closure during the renovation period.

The project is part of a larger renovation programme covering JAL domestic passenger facilities at Terminal 1, including lounges, dedicated counters and security areas.

New improvements travellers can expect from the renovated counters

• Renewed First Class check-in area: Premium passengers receive access to an updated dedicated check-in environment.
• Reopened JAL Global Club counter: Eligible JGC members can once again use the exclusive service area.
• Continued premium airport services: Travellers can access dedicated facilities designed around convenience and efficiency.
• Future facility upgrades: Additional renovation work at Haneda Terminal 1 continues as part of JAL’s broader improvement programme.

The reopening represents one stage of a wider transformation aimed at improving the domestic airport experience for JAL passengers.

How the New JAL Premium Check-In Experience Works

The renovated counters are available for eligible travellers using Japan Airlines’ premium services. Passengers should confirm their eligibility before arrival to ensure they use the correct check-in facilities.

Travellers who may benefit from the upgraded counters

• First Class passengers: Customers travelling in eligible First Class services can use dedicated check-in facilities.
• JAL Global Club members: Qualified JGC members can access exclusive counter services.
• Premium frequent flyers: Regular JAL customers with eligible status can enjoy a more streamlined airport process.

The dedicated counters are designed to provide a more personalised and efficient airport journey before passengers proceed towards departure.

What Travellers Should Know Before Using the Facility

Passengers travelling from Haneda Terminal 1 should understand that renovation work across the airport continues in phases. Some facilities may have different operating schedules while upgrades are completed.

Before Booking and Travelling

• Confirm whether your ticket or membership status allows access to First Class or JGC counters.
• Check the latest JAL airport service information before travelling.
• Arrive with enough time for check-in, security and boarding procedures.
• Follow airport signs for the correct terminal wing and dedicated facilities.
• Check for possible changes as renovation work continues at Terminal 1.

Planning ahead can help passengers take full advantage of the upgraded facilities while avoiding delays during their airport journey.

Industry Impact: Why Premium Airport Upgrades Are Growing

Airlines are increasingly investing in airport facilities as competition moves beyond aircraft cabins. Premium travellers now expect a complete journey that includes efficient check-in, dedicated security access, comfortable lounges and personalised services.

The JAL renovation at Haneda reflects a broader aviation trend where carriers and airports are redesigning passenger experiences to improve convenience and loyalty among high-value customers.

For Tokyo Haneda, one of Japan’s busiest airports, upgraded facilities can strengthen its position as a major hub for domestic connectivity and premium air travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did JAL reopen the renovated First Class and JGC counters at Haneda?

Japan Airlines reopened the renovated First Class and JAL Global Club dedicated counters at Haneda Airport Terminal 1 North Wing on July 24, 2026.

Who can use the JAL Haneda First Class Counter?

The dedicated counters are designed for eligible Japan Airlines First Class passengers and qualified JAL Global Club members.

Is the entire Haneda Terminal 1 renovation complete?

No. JAL is completing renovations in phases, with additional facilities including other lounge and security-related areas scheduled for future updates.

Where are the renovated counters located?

The upgraded First Class and JGC counters are located in the North Wing of Haneda Airport Terminal 1.

How can passengers check access eligibility?

Travellers should review their JAL ticket details, membership benefits or official airport service information before arriving at Haneda.

Closing Update

The reopening of the JAL Haneda First Class Counter marks another step in Japan Airlines’ effort to improve the airport experience for premium travellers. By upgrading dedicated check-in facilities at Tokyo Haneda Terminal 1, JAL is focusing on faster processing, greater comfort and a smoother journey from the airport entrance to the aircraft.