ANA launches new luxury cabins in collaboration with famed japanese architect and british designers

All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan’s flagship carrier, has teamed up with celebrated architect Kengo Kuma and the acclaimed British design studio Acumen to launch a fleet of twelve reimagined Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. The inaugural aircraft began service on the Tokyo/Haneda-London route (NH211/NH212) and continues to set new standards in premium aviation. These cutting-edge cabins, inspired by the essence of Japanese artistry and global design excellence, deliver an immersive, first-class experience for all travelers.

• "Our collaboration with Mr. Kuma and Acumen highlights ANA’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of cabin innovation," stated Hideki Kunugi, Executive Vice President of ANA. "ANA pioneered Japan’s first full lie-flat seat with all-aisle access in 2010. To maintain our leadership in global comfort and convenience, we integrated the latest design intelligence from world-class creators, allowing us to reimagine every detail of our passengers’ journey."

Architect Kengo Kuma commented on the project: "Design is as much about what we consciously omit as what we choose to include. My approach centers on optimizing spatial comfort and harmony. Working alongside ANA and Acumen, we blended Eastern sensibilities with Western innovation, producing an environment that seamlessly reflects Japanese heritage and international sophistication."

Ian Dryburgh, Founder and CEO of Acumen, added: "Our mission was to transform the onboard experience by weaving Japan’s cultural richness into contemporary aviation design. By combining our aviation expertise with Kengo Kuma’s visionary philosophy, we’ve crafted a remarkable cabin environment that elevates ANA’s passenger experience across every class."

The most striking enhancement onboard is the debut of THE Suite – ANA’s flagship First Class seat. Drawing inspiration from the serene luxury of top-tier Japanese hotels, THE Suite is ANA’s most expansive, fully enclosed First Class offering to date. Signature features include privacy doors, a pioneering 43-inch 4K personal entertainment monitor—the first of its kind on any commercial jet—and a customizable divider for guests traveling together. Each suite comes equipped with universal power outlets and USB-A/USB-C charging, all set within a refined dark wood ambiance that exudes understated opulence.

At the core of ANA’s investment in passenger experience is THE Room, a Business Class seat concept inspired by the adaptability of contemporary Japanese living. THE Room features personal privacy doors that can be adjusted to open up the space for socializing, family dining, or business meetings. Its innovative forward- and rear-facing configuration creates one of the most spacious Business Class environments worldwide, with a sofa-like seat that is nearly twice as wide as previous ANA offerings. Every detail is meticulously organized, with thoughtfully designed compartments and subtle indigo accents. To evoke the warmth of a private residence, Kengo Kuma selected a trio of wood finishes—Rosewood, Light Japanese Ash, and Dark Japanese Ash—ensuring a uniquely inviting atmosphere at 35,000 feet.

ANA leads the industry by offering 4K ultra-high-definition personal screens in both First and Business Class. These displays not only showcase crystal-clear visuals but also provide intuitive controls for seat lighting and recline functions. Across all classes, ANA’s signature MY SKY CHANNEL platform empowers passengers to curate their entertainment lineup pre-flight using the airline’s mobile app. Guests can sync their devices to the seat monitor, enabling effortless content selection and even using their phones or tablets as a second screen for a seamless, tailored entertainment experience.

First and Business Class cabins now feature bespoke lighting by Panasonic, meticulously crafted to emulate the gentle progression of sunrise—ideal for restful sleep, focused reading, or elegant dining. In partnership with bedding specialist Nishikawa, ANA offers custom-made seat mattresses and linens, engineered to perfectly fit each seat and deliver unparalleled comfort and support for restorative sleep at altitude.

Building on these enhancements, ANA has transformed the aircraft entrance into an inviting reception area, featuring digital welcome displays reminiscent of a luxury hotel lobby. The upgraded galley and self-service bar reflect the Japanese principle of 'Omotenashi,' or wholehearted hospitality. Passengers enjoy 24/7 access to refreshments from elegantly integrated mini-fridges, while the galley’s backlit panels display motifs inspired by traditional 'washi' paper, infusing the space with a sense of modern Japanese artistry.

Following its recognition as 'Best Business Class Onboard Catering' by SKYTRAX, ANA has further refined its in-flight dining program. Passengers in Business Class can pre-select their meals online up to 24 hours before departure, choosing from an expanded menu—including exclusive dishes crafted in collaboration with renowned chefs and curated international cuisine. Since 2024, ANA has broadened its culinary partnerships and menu variety, ensuring a bespoke gastronomic journey on every long-haul flight.

• The upgraded Boeing 777-300ER aircraft with the new luxury cabins are now in daily operation on the Tokyo/Haneda-London route. Flight schedules may be adjusted periodically, so travelers are encouraged to consult ANA’s official website for the most up-to-date information on aircraft deployment and service availability.