United Airlines Seeks Additional Slots at Tokyo Haneda Airport

United Airlines, a prominent US carrier, has submitted an application to the US Department of Transportation (DOT) in pursuit of securing two slot pairs at Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND), a highly sought-after gateway for travelers to and from the Japanese capital. The airline’s intention is to utilize these slots to introduce new routes connecting Houston and Guam to Haneda, thus bolstering its Asian network and providing enhanced options and convenience to its passengers.

The sought-after slots are currently in the possession of Delta Air Lines and Hawaiian Airlines, both of which have opted to either relinquish or scale back their utilization. Delta has surrendered its slot designated for a Portland to Haneda flight, citing limited demand and challenges in meeting DOT requirements. Meanwhile, Hawaiian has chosen to reduce its frequency on the Honolulu to Haneda route, switching from daily service to once a week.

United’s proposal entails utilizing the slot formerly held by Delta to launch daily flights from Houston to Haneda, commencing on December 1, 2023. While United already operates daily flights from Houston to Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT), the airline argues that Haneda presents greater convenience and appeal to travelers, particularly for onward connections within Japan and across Asia. Additionally, United benefits from a partnership with All Nippon Airways (ANA), which also operates a daily Houston-Haneda flight.

United further proposes utilizing the slot previously held by Hawaiian to initiate five weekly flights from Guam to Haneda, beginning on December 2, 2023. The airline asserts that there is currently no direct service between Guam and Haneda, and it aims to offer a distinctive product catering to travelers in both markets. United already operates numerous flights from Guam to Narita, as well as other destinations throughout Japan and Asia.

Scott Kirby, President and CEO of United Airlines, expressed confidence in the robust demand anticipated for the airline’s Haneda service. He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to expanding its presence in the Asia-Pacific region, thanking the DOT for considering its application and expressing hope for its prompt approval.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, msn.com, crankyflier.com, thepointsguy.com