Is it worth booking Business over Premium Economy?

For flights over 6 hours, yes. The lie-flat seat and access to arrival lounges make a significant difference in mitigating jet lag.

When is the cheapest time to book?

3-4 months out. Last-minute business class fares rarely drop in price unless there is a specific airline-wide promotion.

Booking Business Class Flights Across Asia

Use multi-city search tools to book distinct legs rather than one long itinerary to avoid high fuel surcharges. Prioritize connecting through hubs like Singapore (SIN), Tokyo (HND), or Hong Kong (HKG) to maximize lie-flat seat time on regional wide-body aircraft.

Use ITA Matrix for initial search. Go to matrix.itasoftware.com. Do not book here; use it to find the cheapest carrier combinations. Filter by 'Business' class and use the 'advanced controls' to force specific connections in major Asian hubs.
Target 'fifth freedom' routes. Look for airlines flying between two cities outside their home country (e.g., Singapore Airlines flying Tokyo to Los Angeles). These are often cheaper and offer the same premium service as long-haul flights.
Split the booking. If a through-fare is over $4,000, check the price of two separate one-way tickets on different airlines. Use Google Flights to check availability and book directly on airline websites to ensure easier management if a flight is canceled.
Verify aircraft equipment. Before paying, check SeatGuru or AeroLOPA to ensure your flight is operated by a wide-body jet (e.g., A350, B787). Regional flights within Asia are often serviced by narrow-body jets with standard recliner seats, not lie-flat beds.

Is it worth booking Business over Premium Economy?: For flights over 6 hours, yes. The lie-flat seat and access to arrival lounges make a significant difference in mitigating jet lag.
When is the cheapest time to book?: 3-4 months out. Last-minute business class fares rarely drop in price unless there is a specific airline-wide promotion.