A turning point for the Japanese aviation policy. An „open skies“ agreement has been signed with the United States allowing closer cooperation of the aviation market. Haneda and Narita airports expecting passenger growths expanding their capacity.

Japan opening its skies

Including the US, Japan has already signed the „open skies“ accords with 10 countries and regions. It allows for a closer cooperation of the airlines allowing them to bring more traffic to and from Japan. More tourists are expected to be visiting Japan as the agreement makes it easier for lowcost airlines to enter the Japanese market.

Japanese authorities now intent to sign additional agreements with Asian countries. Their main focus is now on South Korea, Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia. AirAsia X, the Malaysian budget airline is opening a Kuala Lumpur – Tokyo connection in December, ticket prices are starting on 5,000 yen.

Haneda and Narita airports increasing capacity

To accomodate the expected increase in passenger traffic, Tokyo's airports Haneda and Narita are working on increasing their capacity. It is due to these limitations that they are not yet included in Japan's „open skies“ accords. Tokyo International (HND) airport is to open a new international terminal. Narita International (NRT) reacted by adding more takeoff and landing slots reaching an annual maximum of 220,000.

Source: The Mainichi Daily News