#Japan #Tokyo #Japan Airlines #First Sunrise Flight #New Year's Event

Immerse Yourself in the 2026 JAL Group First Sunrise Flight

As the dawn of a new year approaches, the JAL Group is excited to announce its “First Sunrise Flight” for January 1, 2026. This beloved annual event allows passengers to witness the magical moment of the first sunrise of the year from the comfort of an airplane, enhancing their New Year's celebration.

Expanding Flight Options for 2026

For the first time, in addition to the regular flights departing from the popular airports of Haneda, Narita, and Chubu, JAL Group is introducing a route from Kansai International Airport. This change reflects the group's commitment to provide an inclusive experience for travelers across Japan, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to welcome the new year with a breathtaking view from above.

Furthermore, members of JAL’s Life Status Program at the Star level will get priority when applying for these exclusive flights, ensuring that loyal customers can have access to this extraordinary experience.

A Unique Culinary Delight for the Occasion

Passengers on the First Sunrise Flight can expect to be treated to a special New Year's bento box inspired by traditional Japanese flavors, designed to celebrate the festive spirit of the New Year. Though a sample from the 2025 menu is shown, this year's offerings promise to be equally delightful, featuring treats like datemaki (a type of rolled omelet), simmered octopus, smoked duck, and ebi (shrimp).

In addition, travelers can savor red and white steamed buns from Eitaido Sohonpo, a company that has been delighting customers since 1818. These delectable buns are characterized by their moist filling and the perfect balance of dough and paste, making them a fitting treat for welcoming the New Year.

Exclusive Offerings for Passengers

Also, travelers will receive a special JAL First Sunrise Flight designed sake from Kamikawa Taisetsu Brewing, recognized for quality, having been featured in JAL's first-class menus three times since 2019. The finely crafted sake uses select sake rice from Hokkaido and pristine waters from the Hidaka mountains, resulting in a drink that's fragrant and elegantly palatable.

To commemorate the experience, exclusive souvenirs such as a packing organizer, tote bag, and an original JAL daruma doll will be available, adding to the memorability of the event.

Engaging Activities on Flight Day

On the day of the flight, numerous activities are planned to enrich the experience:

• - A large ema (wooden wish plaque) will be placed at the boarding gate, allowing passengers to write their wishes for the new year on wishing tags, which will later be donated to Naritasan Shinshoji Temple.
• - JAL's professional crew members will offer insights about the flight path and aircraft during the journey, deepening passengers’ understanding of their flying experience.

Flight Routes for the 2026 First Sunrise Flight

The flights, designated with specific route numbers, will have the following itineraries:

From Haneda Airport (Flight JAL2026)

• - Departure: Approximately 5:45 AM
• - First Sunrise View: Over the Northern Alps
• - Return: Arrive at Haneda by 7:50 AM

From Narita Airport (Flight JAL2626)

• - Departure: Approximately 5:35 AM
• - First Sunrise View: Over the waters off Tateyama
• - Return: Arrive at Narita by 8:00 AM

From Chubu International Airport (Flight JTA2026)

• - Departure: Approximately 5:55 AM
• - First Sunrise View: Near Mount Fuji
• - Return: Arrive at Chubu International by 7:25 AM

From Kansai Airport (Flight JTA2626)

• - Departure: Approximately 6:40 AM
• - First Sunrise View: Over the Kii Peninsula or Shodoshima
• - Return: Arrive at Kansai Airport by 7:40 AM

Important Notes

• - Flight routes may change without prior notice.
• - Weather conditions might affect visibility of the sunrise and overall scenery; passengers should be prepared for such occurrences.
• - All flight timings are Subject to government approval and can be modified. Processing for boarding is expected to occur between 4:00 AM and 5:00 AM on the flight day.

As JAL Group gets ready to welcome everyone aboard, they look forward to making this New Year's celebration an unforgettable experience for all travelers.