Comparing Royal Navy and Japanese naval aviation

Was the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm less competent than the Japanese naval air arm in the Second World War?

That broad claim overlooks Royal Navy strengths in night operations, navigation, and carrier survival.

A broad claim that the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm was less competent than Japan's overlooks specific British strengths. Taranto demonstrated effective carrier attack planning. British crews could navigate and strike at night and at considerable range. Comparing those capabilities is more useful than relying on each service's general reputation.