#Japan #Tokyo #Winter 2025 #Japan Airlines #International Flights

International Flight Schedule for Winter 2025

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) of Japan has released its plans for the international flight schedule for Winter 2025, covering the period from October 26, 2025, to March 28, 2026. The proposal saw submissions from 128 airlines, comprising 8 domestic companies and 120 international airlines, with approvals granted between October 8 and October 24.

Trends in Flight Operations

For the onset of Winter 2025, a total of 6,240.5 flights per week are scheduled. This includes 5,679.0 passenger flights and 561.5 cargo flights, marking a 9% increase compared to the corresponding period in 2024. Specifically, this surge translates to a 10% rise in passenger flights and a 5% rise in cargo flights, reflecting the highest operational numbers recorded for a winter season to date.

Key Trends by Region and Airport (Passenger Flights)

General Overview

Significant increases in flight operations have been noted on routes to Asia, particularly to India, Thailand, Taiwan, South Korea, and China, as well as in Middle Eastern routes to Qatar and Turkey. Committed increases have also been observed in North American and European routes when compared to the same period last year.

Major Airports

All five primary airports—Narita International Airport, Tokyo International Airport (Haneda), Kansai International Airport, Chubu Centrair International Airport, and Fukuoka Airport—reported an uptick in flight numbers compared to the previous year. Notably, Kansai International Airport and Fukuoka Airport, which saw increased flight slots starting in Summer 2025, experienced notable growth in services, particularly on routes to Asia. Narita International Airport, enjoying enhanced flight slots from Winter 2025, likewise showcased strong growth in Asian routes.

Regional Airports

Outside of the aforementioned major airports, other regional airports have seen notable enhancements in international flight services, driven by increased demand for flights to Thailand, South Korea, China, and Taiwan.

This expanded schedule reflects the rising demand for international air travel, with the MLIT focusing on fortifying Japan's global connectivity. The authorities anticipate that these increased services will support economic recovery efforts and boost tourism, which continues to be a critical sector for Japan's economy.

For more detailed information, including specific flight routes and services, please refer to the official announcement on the MLIT website. The increased flight capacity is expected to facilitate smoother travel experiences for both passengers and freight carriers alike.

Contact Information

For inquiries regarding this announcement, you may contact:

• - Ikeda or Sasaki, International Aviation Division, Aviation Network Department, Transport Policy Bureau, MLIT – TEL: 03-5253-8111
• - Yoshihara, Aviation Business Division, Aviation Network Department, MLIT – TEL: 03-5253-8111

This strategic move by the Japanese government aims to position the nation's aviation industry at the forefront of international travel initiatives, contributing to a vibrant post-pandemic recovery in the global travel landscape.