Hokkaido Airports Expands Global Routes and Markets
Japan’s Hokkaido Airports is charting a bold new course in international travel by securing several new routes and planning further expansion into Southeast Asia and long-haul markets. The operator, which includes New Chitose Airport (CTS) among its portfolio, has recently welcomed carriers such as Aero K Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Vietjet Air, Beijing Capital Airlines, Hainan Airlines, and Cebu Pacific Air into its growing network. This strategic move is designed to balance seasonal demand while boosting year-round tourism, ensuring that Hokkaido remains a top destination for international visitors.
A major highlight of the new route development is the resumption of Qantas flights from Sydney to New Chitose Airport in winter 2025-26. After a five-year hiatus, this long-haul service is expected to capture the strong winter ski season demand, which has seen significant growth in recent years. “The Qantas launch is expected to capture the strong winter ski season demand, which has been growing in recent years,” said Kenjiro Karahashi, managing director for Aviation Business Development at Hokkaido Airports. He emphasized that the new route is important not only for boosting tourism but also for fostering cultural exchange and economic growth between Japan and Australia.
Hokkaido Airports is using a data-driven approach to its route expansion strategy. By analyzing visitor trends and industry insights, the operator is working closely with tourism boards, local governments, and businesses to enhance transportation and accommodation infrastructure across the region. This collaborative effort aims to create a more efficient travel experience while increasing the overall appeal of Hokkaido as a destination. The focus is on establishing the right mix of services that cater to both leisure travelers and business visitors, ensuring a sustainable model for long-term growth.
In addition to expanding international air service, Hokkaido Airports is committed to spreading demand more evenly across its network. While New Chitose Airport remains the primary gateway for international travel, there is also a concerted effort to develop secondary airports such as Hakodate, Asahikawa, and Kushiro. This initiative will not only help alleviate congestion at the main airport but also promote tourism in other parts of Hokkaido, allowing travelers to explore the region’s diverse attractions more easily.
Karahashi explained that the airport group’s strategy goes beyond merely increasing the number of routes or destinations. “It is important for us that, rather than simply increasing the number of routes or destinations, we focus on finding the most beneficial solutions for airlines, passengers and our airports, fostering a collaborative and sustainable approach,” he said. This emphasis on collaboration ensures that the needs of airlines and travelers are met, while also supporting local economies and creating opportunities for regional development.
Looking ahead, Hokkaido Airports is also setting its sights on attracting additional long-haul services from markets beyond Asia. With Hokkaido’s strong reputation as a premier winter sports destination, the operator believes there is significant potential to draw more long-haul carriers to the region, further enhancing connectivity and boosting tourism. This ambitious expansion strategy is poised to reinforce Hokkaido’s position on the global map as a vibrant and accessible travel destination throughout the year.
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