AirJapan Debuts with First Boeing 787-8 Aircraft and Inaugurates Tokyo to Bangkok Route
AirJapan, a new entrant in the aviation market under ANA Holdings, marked a significant milestone by taking delivery of its first Boeing 787-8 aircraft on January 24, 2024. The airline kicked off its revenue services with an inaugural flight from Tokyo Narita to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi on February 9, showcasing its ambition to become a key player in connecting Japan with major international destinations.
The aircraft, registered as JA803A with a manufacturer’s serial number of 34485, transitioned from its previous operations with ANA – All Nippon Airways, ANA Holdings’ flagship carrier, on December 1, 2023. Before joining AirJapan, the airplane underwent a comprehensive cabin refurbishment in Xiamen, returning to Narita fully equipped to accommodate up to 324 passengers in a streamlined, single-class configuration. This strategic move underscores AirJapan’s commitment to offering competitive and accessible air travel options.
As part of its initial route offerings, AirJapan has introduced a service to Bangkok, operating six times weekly. This route is just the beginning, as the airline has disclosed plans to expand its network to include Seoul Incheon and Singapore Changi later in the year, focusing primarily on attracting foreign tourists to Japan. This expansion strategy aligns with ANA Holdings’ broader vision to capture a significant share of the international travel market to and from Japan.
The Boeing 787-8 is a cornerstone of this strategy, providing a balance of efficiency and comfort conducive to medium to long-haul flights. ANA mainline’s current operation of thirty-seven 787-8s and forty-two 787-9s highlights the group’s preference for this modern, fuel-efficient fleet. AirJapan’s entry with the 787-8 further complements the diverse offerings within ANA Holdings, which also includes Peach Aviation, a short-haul low-cost carrier, and ANA Wings, a regional capacity provider.
This launch signifies a pivotal development in Japan’s aviation sector, with AirJapan poised to leverage the operational excellence and network strength of ANA Holdings. By focusing on key international routes and prioritizing passenger comfort and affordability, AirJapan aims to establish itself as a preferred choice for travelers seeking to explore Japan and its rich cultural heritage.