Jetstar Japan reveals Manila, downsizes Kumamoto.

On January 19th, Jetstar Japan [GK/JJP] announced that it will add Manila/Ninoy Aquino [MNL/RPLL] to its network this spring (Jetstar Japan launches Taipei, next up Manila.), with service from Tokyo/Narita [NRT/RJAA] commencing on March 15th, Nagoya/Chubu Centrair [NGO/RJGG] on April 1st, and Osaka/Kansai [KIX/RJBB] on April 7th. All flights will be operated by 180-seat Airbus A320-200s. This marks the first time a Japanese LCC lands in the Philippines.

Airbus A320-232(SL) JA19JJ taxies for departure from Narita's Terminal 3, dedicated to LCCs. (Photo: Ryosuke Yano)

Narita – Manila will initially start off with three weekly round-trips, gradually increasing to up to seven times weekly. Chubu Centrair – Manila will commence with up to seven weekly, and Kansai – Manila with up to four times weekly. Sister Jetstar Asia Airways [3K/JSA] already operates three times weekly on the Kansai – Manila route, and together the Jetstar Group will offer up to seven-times-weekly service. Along with Jetstar Airways [JQ/JST], the three had received antitrust immunity from Japanese authorities to coordinate schedules and prices on routes between Japan and Taiwan and the Philippines last October.

Flight Schedule:
Narita – Manila/Ninoy Aquino NEW up to daily with A320-200.
GK041 NRT 2005 – 0005(+1) MNL 32A/320 Tu/Th/Sa *Mar/15-19.
GK041 NRT 2005 – 0005(+1) MNL 32A/320 Mo/Tu/We/Th/Sa *Mar/20-26.
GK041 NRT 2010 – 0010(+1) MNL 32A/320 Fr *Mar/20-26.
GK041 NRT 2030 – 0005(+1) MNL 32A/320 Tu/Th/Fr/Sa/Su *Mar/27-Apr/3.
GK041 NRT 2030 – 0005(+1) MNL 32A/320 Tu/We/Th/Fr/Sa/Su *Apr/4-28.
GK041 NRT 2030 – 0005(+1) MNL 32A/320 Daily *Apr/29-May/8, Jun/1-30.
GK041 NRT 2030 – 0005(+1) MNL 32A/320 Tu/Th/Fr/Sa/Su *May/9-31.
GK040 MNL 0105 – 0615 NRT 32A/320 We/Fr/Su *Mar/16-20.
GK040 MNL 0105 – 0615 NRT 32A/320 Tu/We/Th/Fr/Sa/Su *Mar/21-27.
GK040 MNL 0105 – 0635 NRT 32A/320 Mo *Mar/28.
GK040 MNL 0105 – 0635 NRT 32A/320 We/Fr *Mar/29-Apr/4.
GK040 MNL 0105 – 0635 NRT 32A/320 We/Th *Apr/5-29.
GK040 MNL 0105 – 0635 NRT 32A/320 We *May/10-Jun/10.
GK040 MNL 0035 – 0605 NRT 32A/320 Mo/Sa/Su *Mar/29-Apr/4.
GK040 MNL 0035 – 0605 NRT 32A/320 Mo/Tu/Sa/Su *Apr/5-29.
GK040 MNL 0035 – 0605 NRT 32A/320 Daily *Apr/30-May/9.
GK040 MNL 0035 – 0605 NRT 32A/320 Mo/Tu/Sa/Su *May/10-Jun/1.
GK040 MNL 0035 – 0605 NRT 32A/320 Daily *Jun/2-Jul/1.

Chubu Centrair – Manila/Ninoy Aquino NEW up to daily with A320-200.
GK095 NGO 2030 – 2335 MNL 32A/320 Fr/Sa/Su *Apr/1-3.
GK095 NGO 2030 – 2335 MNL 32A/320 Mo/Fr/Sa/Su *Apr/4-28, May/9-31.
GK095 NGO 2030 – 2335 MNL 32A/320 Daily *Apr/29-May/8, Jun/1-30.
GK094 MNL 0105 – 0555 NGO 32A/320 Mo/Sa/Su *Apr/2-4.
GK094 MNL 0105 – 0555 NGO 32A/320 Mo/Fr/Sa/Su *Apr/5-29, May/10-Jun/1.
GK094 MNL 0105 – 0555 NGO 32A/320 Daily *Apr/30-May/9, Jun/2-Jul/1.

Kansai – Manila/Ninoy Aquino NEW up to 4 weekly with A320-200.
GK081 KIX 2030 – 2335 MNL 32A/320 Tu/We/Th/Fr *Apr/7-28, Jun/1-30.
GK081 KIX 2030 – 2335 MNL 32A/320 Tu/Th *Apr/29-May/31.
GK080 MNL 0035 – 0530 KIX 32A/320 We/Th/Fr/Sa *Apr/8-29, Jun/2-Jul/1.
GK080 MNL 0035 – 0530 KIX 32A/320 We/Fr *Apr/30-Jun/1.

All flights leave Japan in the evening, arriving in the Philippines past midnight, and make a red-eye departure for an early-morning return back to Japan. Tickets went on sale at 1600 JST today, and promotional fares are offered for all three new routes starting from one-way 990 JPY, excluding tax and fuel surcharges. The promotion is limited to 2,000 seats, and are only available for 26 hours. Normal one-way fares start from 9,000 JPY for Narita – Manila and Chubu Centrair – Manila and 8,500 JPY for Kansai – Manila, both excluding tax and fuel surcharges.

Narita – Manila is currently served by All Nippon Airways [NH/ANA] (daily), Cebu Air [5J/CEB] (d.b.a. Cebu Pacific Air) (daily), Japan Airlines [JL/JAL] (x2 daily), Delta Air Lines [DL/DAL] (daily), and Philippine Airlines [PR/PAL] (x2 daily), while Chubu Centrair – Manila sees Cebu Pacific (x4 weekly) and Philippine Airlines (daily) and Kansai – Manila has Cebu Pacific (x5 weekly), Jetstar Asia (x3 weekly), and Philippine Airlines (daily). Zest Airways [Z2/EZD] (d.b.a. AirAsia Zest) is preparing to enter the Philippines – Japan market during the second half of 2016.

Meanwhile, on January 15th, Jetstar Japan had disclosed that it would axe Kansai – Kumamoto [KMJ/RJFT] effective March 27th, the beginning of the Summer 2016 timetable. It was initially launched on October 26th, 2014 with two round-trips per day (Jetstar Japan starts three routes from Kumamoto.), but later reduced to daily. Recent load factors have reportedly hovered around 50-60%. It becomes the third route suspended by the growing LCC after Chubu Centrair – Kumamoto and Kansai – Oita [OIT/RJFO] (Jetstar Japan cuts Nagoya – Kumamoto and Kansai – Oita.).

Source: Jetstar Japan, 2016 January 15th. (in Japanese)
Source: Jetstar Japan, 2016 January 19th. (in Japanese)
Source: Aviation Wire, 2016 January 19th. (in Japanese)

Amakusa Airlines' ATR42-600 arrives in Japan.

On August 21st, Amakusa Airlines' [AHX] brand-new ATR42-600 registered JA01AM arrived at Kumamoto [KMJ/RJFT] on delivery (Amakusa Airlines chooses ATR42-600.). The Amakusa [AXJ/RJDA]-based commuter airline will replace its sole 39-seat Bombardier DHC-8-103 JA81MX Mizoka with the new 48-seat aircraft, which becomes the first of the type to be operated in Japan. It had been delivered to Nordic Aviation Capital on lease to Amakusa Airlines on August 13th.

The eight on board the delivery flight pose in front of ATR42-600 JA01AM New Mizoka at Kumamoto upon completing the long journey. (Photo: Amakusa Airlines)

The long delivery flight started from Toulouse/Blagnac [TLS/LFBO] on August 16th, making stops at Paphos [PFO/LCPH], Bahrain [BAH/OBBI], Muscat [MCT/OOMS], Malé [MLE/VRMM], Colombo/Bandaranaike [CMB/VCBI], Bangkok/Don Mueang [DMK/VTBD], and Taipei/Taoyuan [TPE/RCTP], before arriving at Kumamoto on August 21st. As JA01AM approached the Kyushu airport, it performed a low-pass in front of a crowd of enthusiasts who gathered to welcome the new turboprop, before touching down on Runway 25. A total of eight officials including pilots from ATR and Amakusa staff were on board the delivery flight.

ATR42-600 JA01AM New Mizoka at Toulouse prior to delivery. (Photo: Amakusa Airlines)

The tiny single-aircraft airline currently flies Amakusa – Fukuoka [FUK/RJFF] three times daily and Amakusa – Kumamoto – Osaka/Itami [ITM/RJOO] daily, though the latter was suspended on August 23rd to allow its pilots to start transitioning to the ATR42. Crew training is expected to start by the end of August, and the brand-new aircraft is planned to enter service sometime in January 2016. The sole DHC-8 will be retired then, retaining a single-aircraft fleet.

Amakusa Airlines is owned 53.31% by Kumamoto Prefecture, 22.92% by the City of Amakusa, 2.73% by the City of Kamiamakusa, 1.2% by Reihoku Town, among others. The small niche airline code-shares with Japan Airlines [JL/JAL] on all flights (Amakusa Airlines announces code-share with JAL.) and outsources ground handling to its partner at all of its destinations except for Amakusa, its home base. JAL affiliate Japan Air Commuter [3X/JAC] will become the second ATR42 operator in Japan in 2017 when it starts to take delivery of eight ordered to replace its Saab SF340Bs (Japan Air Commuter orders up to 23 ATR42-600s.).

Source: Amakusa Airlines @ Facebook.
Source: Aviation Wire, 2015 August 21st. (in Japanese)

Jetstar Japan cuts Nagoya – Kumamoto and Kansai – Oita.

On August 19th, Jetstar Japan [GK/JJP] announced that they would suspend Nagoya/Chubu Centrair [NGO/RJGG] – Kumamoto [KMJ/RJFT] and Osaka/Kansai [KIX/RJBB] – Oita [OIT/RJFO] effective October 25th, the beginning of the Winter 2015/2016 timetable. These routes will only have survived just over a year as they were launched on October 26th (Jetstar Japan starts three routes from Kumamoto.) and July 11th (Jetstar Japan to start Kansai – Oita in October.), 2014, respectively. They also become the first terminations since the Japanese affiliate of the Australia-based LCC launched operations on July 3rd, 2012.

Airbus A320-232(SL) JA06JJ at Chubu Centrair. After Kumamoto is axed, Jetstar Japan will continue to serve Fukuoka, Kagoshima, Okinawa/Naha, and Sapporo/New Chitose from the airport serving Nagoya. While it has denied developing it into a hub for now, AirAsia Japan (Mk II) will launch in Spring 2016 with a base here. (Photo: Jetstar Japan)

"There weren't enough passengers and we didn't see demand growing as much as we had expected," said a spokesperson from the Narita-based LCC, adding "We are currently reviewing our entire network." Kansai – Oita has been served daily, while the Chubu Centrair – Kumamoto link was initially started with double-daily but decreased to once-daily from the Summer 2015 schedule. Meanwhile, they will continue to serve Oita from Narita, and Kumamoto from both Narita and Kansai (Jetstar Japan launches Kansai hub.).

Jetstar Japan surpassed 10 millionth passengers on August 5th, beating rival Peach Aviation [MM/APJ] by one day, making it the fastest LCC to achieve that milestone as it launched operations four months later than the Osaka-headquartered rival. As they start adjusting its domestic network, it will slowly shift focus to the international arena; Hong Kong [HKG/VHHH] from both Narita (Jetstar Japan starts Narita – Hong Kong.) and Kansai (Jetstar Japan goes international with Kansai – Hong Kong.) will go up to double-daily, and a new international destination is expected to be revealed soon.

On the financial side, profitability has yet to come; another 5 billion JPY is reportedly being prepared for injection together by Japan Airlines [JL/JAL] and Qantas Airways [QF/QFA]. The two biggest shareholders pumped in 11 billion JPY in October 2013 and another 7 billion JPY in October 2014 (Jetstar Japan to receive 11 billion JPY from JAL and Qantas.). "2014 was our bottom. Results have improved, and though I can't say when, we expect to be in the black soon," said Masaru Kataoka, Jetstar Japan's Chairman, adding "Now we are looking to expand into high-demand markets in North Asia and Southeast Asia."

Source: Jetstar Japan, 2015 August 5th. (in Japanese) 
Source: Aviation Wire, 2015 August 8th. (in Japanese)
Source: Jetstar Japan, 2015 August 19th. (in Japanese)
Source: Aviation Wire, 2015 August 19th. (in Japanese)

Jetstar Japan commences Nagoya – Okinawa.

On March 29th, Jetstar Japan [GK/JJP] inaugurated Nagoya/Chubu Centrair [NGO/RJGG] – Okinawa/Naha [OKA/ROAH] with a daily frequency operated by 180-seat Airbus A320s (Jetstar Japan to start Nagoya – Okinawa.). It became the 20th route for the Tokyo/Narita [NRT/RJAA]-headquartered LCC, while they are the first LCC to connect the two cities. Meanwhile, their twice-daily Chubu Centrair – Kumamoto [KMJ/RJFT] service (Jetstar Japan starts three routes from Kumamoto.) has been reduced to once daily.

Airbus A320-232(SL) JA06JJ departs Nagoya's Chubu Centrair on the inaugural flight to Naha in Okinawa. (Photo: Aviation Wire)

The first flight out of Chubu Centrair as GK381 departed Gate 7 at 1207 JST, 12 minutes behind schedule, carrying 169 passengers, including four children and infants. It was operated by A320-232(SL) JA06JJ. "Naha is a strong leisure-demand destination along with Sapporo, and the traveling public has been waiting for an LCC," said Hiroshi Kawakami, President of Central Japan International Airport, which operates Nagoya's global gateway.

Flight Schedule:
Chubu Centrair – Naha NEW 1 daily with A320-200. (2015/Mar/29 - Oct/24)
GK381 NGO 1155 – 1415 OKA 32A/320 Daily
GK382 OKA 1505 – 1715 NGO 32A/320 Daily

Naha becomes Jetstar Japan's fifth nonstop destination from Chubu Centrair after Fukuoka [FUK/RJFF], Kagoshima [KOJ/RJFK], Kumamoto, and Sapporo/New Chitose [CTS/RJCC]. Now that its second hub at Osaka/Kansai [KIX/RJBB] (Jetstar Japan launches Kansai hub.) has been set up, they are expected to develop a third hub at the airport serving the nation's third largest metropolitan region. AirAsia Japan (Mk II) is also expected to establish its main base at Chubu Centrair with flights to begin before the end of this year (New AirAsia Japan's first Airbus A320 due in July.).

The Chubu Centrair – Naha route sees competition from All Nippon Airways [NH/ANA] with twice-daily service, fellow Japan Airlines [JL/JAL]-affiliate Japan Transocean Air [NU/JTA] four times daily, Skymark Airlines [BC/SKY] daily, and Skynet Asia Airways [6J/SNJ] (d.b.a. Solaseed Air), which also launched the route on the same day as Jetstar Japan (Solaseed Air expands Okinawa with Ishigaki and Nagoya.), with a daily round-trip.

Source: Aviation Wire, March 29th. (in Japanese)
Source: Traicy, March 29th. (in Japanese)

*Edited/corrected on March 31st, 2015.

Amakusa Airlines announces code-share with JAL.

On February 3rd, Amakusa Airlines [AHX] announced that they would launch code-sharing with Japan Airlines [JL/JAL] on April 1st. Under the scheme, JAL will place its code on the regional community airline's entire network and all flights, which includes three times daily Amakusa [AXJ/RJDA] – Fukuoka [FUK/RJFF] and a daily Amakusa – Kumamoto [KMJ/RJFT] – Osaka/Itami [ITM/RJOO] routing.

Bombardier DHC-8-103 JA81MX, its entire fleet, wears a unique dolphin livery. (Photo: Aviation Wire)

Amakusa Airlines will take delivery of a brand-new ATR42-600 in January 2016 (Amakusa Airlines chooses ATR42-600.) to replace the current sole Bombardier DHC-8-103 JA81MX, which will be coming up for a 300-million JPY C check later in FY2015. The company concluded that that amount plus subsequent maintenance costs of the 14-year-old turboprop would outweigh the expenses of replacing it with a newer model.

However, while the current aircraft seats 39, the successor seats 48, and with the niche carrier having difficulties filling seats on the Dash 8 during off-peak months, it apparently turned to JAL to help with loads. The commuter airline of the Amakusa Islands outsources ground handling to JAL at all airports except for its home base at Amakusa, so the selection is obvious.

Amakusa Airlines is owned 53.31% by Kumamoto Prefecture, 22.92% by the City of Amakusa, 2.73% by the City of Kamiamakusa, 1.2% by Reihoku Town, among others, and operates a single DHC-8.

Source: Amakusa Airlines, February 3rd. (in Japanese)

Jetstar Japan starts three routes from Kumamoto.

On October 26th, Jetstar Japan (GK/JJP) launched Kumamoto (KMJ/RJFT) with double-daily flights each to and from Nagoya/Chubu Centrair (NGO/RJGG), Osaka/Kansai (KIX/RJBB), and Tokyo/Narita (NRT/RJAA) (Jetstar Japan to launch Kumamoto with three routes.). The capital city of Kumamoto prefecture becomes their fourth destination in Kyushu, and their 11th city overall in their growing network. Jetstar Japan is the first LCC to serve Kumamoto.

Airbus A320-232(SL) JA11JJ takes off from Kumamoto bound for Nagoya Chubu Centrair as their first departure from the Kyushu airport. (Photo: Aviation Wire)

The inaugural arrival, flight GK611 from Narita operated by Airbus A320-232(SL) JA11JJ, touched down at Kumamoto at 0806 JST with a load of 140 passengers. It was greeted by a traditional water cannon salute before coming to a stop at Gate 6. The first departure, flight GK680 to Chubu Centrair, was delayed by a towing bar malfunction, and took off at 0933, approximately 30 minutes behind schedule, carrying 108 passengers. Jetstar Japan's A320s seat 180 in an all-economy layout.

Flight Schedule:
Narita – Kumamoto NEW 2 daily with A320-200. 
GK611 NRT 0620 – 0820 KMJ 32A/320 Mo/Fr/Sa/Su *Oct/26 - Dec/15, Jan/9 - Feb/16. 
GK611 NRT 0620 – 0820 KMJ 32A/320 Daily *Dec/19 - Jan/5, Feb/20 - Mar/28. 
GK613 NRT 0820 – 1020 KMJ 32A/320 Tu/We/Th *Oct/28 - Dec/18, Jan/6 - Feb/19. 
GK615 NRT 1345 – 1550 KMJ 32A/320 Daily 
GK610 KMJ 1245 – 1430 NRT 32A/320 Mo/Fr/Sa/Su *Oct/26 - Dec/15, Jan/9 - Feb/16. 
GK610 KMJ 1245 – 1430 NRT 32A/320 Daily *Dec/19 - Jan/5, Feb/20 - Mar/28. 
GK612 KMJ 1430 – 1615 NRT 32A/320 Tu/We/Th *Jan/6 - Feb/19. 
GK612 KMJ 1435 – 1620 NRT 32A/320 Tu/We/Th *Oct/28 - Dec/18. 
GK614 KMJ 2000 – 2145 NRT 32A/320 Daily  

Kansai – Kumamoto NEW 2 daily with A320-200. 
GK671 KIX 0810 – 0935 KMJ 32A/320 Daily GK673 KIX 1520 – 1645 KMJ 32A/320 Daily 
GK672 KMJ 1005 – 1110 KIX 32A/320 Daily GK674 KMJ 1715 – 1820 KIX 32A/320 Daily  

Kumamoto – Chubu Centrair NEW 2 daily with A320-200. 
GK681 NGO 1045 – 1210 KMJ 32A/320 Mo/Fr/Sa/Su *Oct/26 – Dec/15, Jan/9 - Feb/16. 
GK681 NGO 1045 – 1210 KMJ 32A/320 Daily *Dec/19 - Jan/5, Feb/20 - Mar/28. 
GK683 NGO 1235 – 1400 KMJ 32A/320 Tu/We/Th *Jan/6 - Feb/19. 
GK683 NGO 1240 – 1405 KMJ 32A/320 Tu/We/Th *Oct/28 - Dec/18. 
GK685 NGO 1805 – 1930 KMJ 32A/320 Daily 
GK680 KMJ 0850 – 1000 NGO 32A/320 Mo/Fr/Sa/Su *Oct/26 – Dec/15, Jan/9 - Feb/16. 
GK680 KMJ 0850 – 1000 NGO 32A/320 Daily *Dec/19 - Jan/5, Feb/20 - Mar/28. 
GK682 KMJ 1050 – 1200 NGO 32A/320 Tu/We/Th *Oct/28 - Dec/18, Jan/6 - Feb/19.
GK684 KMJ 1620 – 1730 NGO 32A/320 Daily

"We want everyone to feel free to use us. From those visiting relatives to travelers, we want everyone to make good use of our high-frequency, low-fare services to do that multiple times in one year," said Miyuki Suzuki, CEO of Jetstar Japan. "The inauguration means a lot to us. Opening up these new links to Narita, Kansai, and Chubu greatly enhances our connection to the rest of the world," responded Ikuo Kabashima, Governor of Kumamoto Prefecture, adding "Whenever I go to Tokyo, I will use Jetstar as much as I can!"

Asked which city would be the next on Jetstar Japan's network, Mrs. Suzuki replied "Nothing has been decided yet. For now, we will concentrate on promoting our latest destination." The Japanese affiliate of the successful Australian LCC has yet to serve a city in the northeast, notably Akita (AXT/RJSK), Aomori (AOJ/RJSA), and Sendai (SDJ/RJSS), so it may be one of them. They are also expected to commence international flights to neighboring Asian countries by Spring 2015.

Reference: Aviation Wire, October 26th. (in Japanese)

Solaseed Air bids farewell to the Boeing 737-400.

On September 29th, Skynet Asia Airways (6J/SNJ), doing business as Solaseed Air, retired the Boeing 737-400. The last revenue flight was 6J022, departing Kumamoto (KMJ/RJFT) at 1900 JST and touching down at Tokyo/Haneda (HND/RJTT) at 2022 with a load of 136 passengers, three flight attendants, and two pilots. It was operated by 737-46M JA392K. Passengers were handed out last-flight certificates, magnets, and stickers.

Boeing 737-46Q JA737B at Nagasaki. She became the penultimate 737-400 in the fleet, operating its last flight on September 23rd as 6J034 from Nagasaki to Haneda. (Photo: Ryosuke Yano)

The second variant of the new generation 'Baby Boeing' was the first type to be flown by the airline when they launched operations on August 1st, 2002 as the third child of Japan's deregulation with a Haneda – Miyazaki (KMI/RJFM) service. Skynet Asia has since flown a dozen different 737-400s, operating 10 at peak time between July 2010 and April 2012. However, the introduction of the 737-800 in July 2011, which coincided with their re-branding into Solaseed Air, marked the gradual transition to the Next-Generation 737.

Boeing 737-4Y0 JA391K in Skynet Asia Airways' original livery. It was retired in April 2012. ANA owns a 8.56% minority stake in the Miyazaki-based carrier, but maintains a much greater near-subsidiary influence. (Photo: Ryosuke Yano)

Last year, I had the opportunity to fly on JA737B (CoachFlyer 6J034: NGS - HND on Solaseed Air's Boeing 737.), which was retired six days earlier. With fleet modernization now complete, Solaseed Air's average fleet age will be reduced to just 1.75 years. It operates 11 737-800s, with the 12th due in May 2015. Japan Transocean Air (NU/JTA) is now the sole and last Japanese operator of the 737-400 with a dozen, though that fleet too will be replaced by 737-800s starting in January 2016 (JTA finalizes order for 12 Boeing 737-800s.).

Reference: FlightLiner, September 29th. (in Japanese)

Solaseed Air to retire Boeing 737-400 on September 29th.

Skynet Asia Airways (6J/SNJ), doing business as Solaseed Air, will retire the Boeing 737-400 on September 29th, with the last revenue flight currently planned to be flight 6J090, service from Oita (OIT/RJFO) to Tokyo/Haneda (HND/RJTT). The stretched variant of the second generation 'Baby Boeing' was the first type to be flown by the airline when they launched on August 1st, 2002, with Haneda – Miyazaki (KMI/RJFM).

Boeing 737-46Q JA737B awaiting its next flight at Tokyo's Haneda. (Photo: Ryosuke Yano)

For September, the 737-400 is scheduled for just three round-trips: Haneda – Nagasaki (NGS/RJFU), Haneda – Oita, and Haneda – Kumamoto (KMJ/RJFT). Two of the type remain in service: 737-46Q JA737B and 737-46M JA392K. The former started out its carrier with now-defunct Istanbul Airlines (IL/IST) as TC-IAB in June 1998, while the latter was first delivered to Virgin Express (TV/VEX) as OO-VED in January 1997.

Boeing 737-400 Flight Schedule:
Haneda – Nagasaki 1 of 4 daily operated with 737-400.
6J031 HND 0650 – 0840 NGS 734 Daily *Until Sep/29.
6J034 NGS 0910 – 1055 HND 734 Daily *Until Sep/29.

Haneda – Oita 1 of 4 daily operated with 737-400.
6J091 HND 1215 – 1350 OIT 734 Daily *Until Sep/29.
6J090 OIT 1425 – 1555 HND 734 Daily *Until Sep/29. Last revenue flight.

Haneda – Kumamoto 1 of 5 daily operated with 737-400.
6J017 HND 1630 – 1810 KMJ 734 Daily *Until Sep/28.
6J022 KMJ 1845 – 2025 HND 734 Daily  *Until Sep/28.

The company's 11th 737-800 is expected to be delivered in September, however, their schedule from October only calls for 10 737-800s, so the 11th will be used as back-up equipment. Solaseed will receive their 12th in May 2015, which will coincide with an expansion of their network, the details of which will be announced this autumn. It will most likely be a 'transfer' of less profitable routes from de facto parent ANA Holdings' subsidiary All Nippon Airways (NH/ANA). ANA Holdings holds a 8.56% stake in Solaseed.

I was fortunate enough to fly on JA737B last year (CoachFlyer 6J034: NGS - HND on Solaseed Air's Boeing 737.). After Solaseed Air retires the 737-400, Japan Transocean Air (NU/JTA) will be the sole Japanese operator of the variant with a dozen, though that fleet too will be replaced by 737-800s starting in January 2016 (JTA finalizes order for 12 Boeing 737-800s.). Catch them while you can!

Reference: FlyTeam, August 25th. (in Japanese)

JAL to terminate Narita – Okinawa.

Japan Airlines (JL/JAL) has released their Winter 2014/2015 timetable, effective October 26th, 2014 through March 28th, 2015. It includes axing of the once-daily Tokyo/Narita (NRT/RJAA) – Okinawa/Naha (OKA/ROAH) service, which is mostly aimed at connecting passengers for their international flights to and from Narita.

Boeing 777-346 JA8945 moments before touchdown at Okinawa's Naha Airport. (Photo: Ryosuke Yano)

Meanwhile, Japan's second largest carrier will adjust capacity on other routes during the winter months. Tokyo/Haneda (HND/RJTT) to Izumo (IZO/RJOC) and Kumamoto (KMJ/RJFT) will see frequency increases from five to six and eight to nine, respectively, while Fukuoka (FUK/RJFF) to Amami (ASJ/RJKA), Izumo, Matsuyama (MYJ/RJOM), and Miyazaki (KMI/RJFM) will all see one of its flights being cut.

Frequency Increases (DOMESTIC):
Haneda – Izumo from 5 to 6 daily.
Haneda – Kumamoto from 8 to 9 daily.

Frequency Reductions (DOMESTIC):
Fukuoka – Amami from 2 to 1 daily.
Fukuoka – Izumo from 3 to 2 daily.
Fukuoka – Matsuyama from 6 to 5 daily.
Fukuoka – Miyazaki from 10 to 9 daily.

Suspensions (DOMESTIC):
Narita – Naha 1 daily.

Currently, the once-daily Narita – Naha service operates with a 261-seat (42 Class J and 219 economy) Boeing 767-300. Load factors for the route for April - June last year hovered around 40 - 50%, however, it recorded 22.2% (down 20.2% from last year) for April this year, 25.3% (down 24.5% from last year) for May, and 32.3% (down 25.5% from last year) for June. Competition with Narita-based LCCs Jetstar Japan (GK/JJP), in which JAL owns a minority stake, and Vanilla Air (JW/VNL) has significantly increased. JAL's international-connecting passengers will still be able to book the route as a code-share with Jetstar Japan, which operates up to four daily round-trips.

JAL's international plans for Winter 2014/2015, including the anticipated resumption of the Osaka/Kansai (KIX/RJBB) – Los Angeles (LAX/KLAX) route (JAL to resume Kansai – Los Angeles in Winter 2014/2015.), will be announced at a later date.

Reference: Japan Airlines, August 20th. (in Japanese)
Reference: Aviation Wire, August 20th. (in Japanese)

Jetstar Japan to launch Kumamoto with three routes.

On August 20th, Jetstar Japan (GK/JJP) announced that they will add Kumamoto (KMJ/RJFT), their 11th destination and fourth city in Kyushu, to their growing network from October 26th, the start of the Winter 2014/2015 timetable. Twice daily flights will be operated each to and from Nagoya/Chubu Centrair (NGO/RJGG), Osaka/Kansai (KIX/RJBB), and Tokyo/Narita (NRT/RJAA) using 180-seat Airbus A320s.

Airbus A320-232 JA05JJ being pushed back by JAL's ground handling at Fukuoka. (Photo: Ryosuke Yano)

To promote the inauguration, the Japanese unit of the Australian LCC will sell 99 seats on each flight on the three new routes for an eye-catching 99 JPY for travel between October 26th and December 4th. Tickets will go on sale on August 21st at 1630 JST.

Flight Schedule:
Narita – Kumamoto NEW 2 daily with A320-200.
GK611 NRT 0620 – 0820 KMJ 32A/320 Mo/Fr/Sa/Su *Oct/26 - Dec/15, Jan/9 - Feb/16.
GK611 NRT 0620 – 0820 KMJ 32A/320 Daily *Dec/19 - Jan/5, Feb/20 - Mar/28.
GK613 NRT 0820 – 1020 KMJ 32A/320 Tu/We/Th *Oct/28 - Dec/18, Jan/6 - Feb/19.
GK615 NRT 1345 – 1550 KMJ 32A/320 Daily
GK610 KMJ 1245 – 1430 NRT 32A/320 Mo/Fr/Sa/Su *Oct/26 - Dec/15, Jan/9 - Feb/16.
GK610 KMJ 1245 – 1430 NRT 32A/320 Daily *Dec/19 - Jan/5, Feb/20 - Mar/28.
GK612 KMJ 1430 – 1615 NRT 32A/320 Tu/We/Th *Jan/6 - Feb/19.
GK612 KMJ 1435 – 1620 NRT 32A/320 Tu/We/Th *Oct/28 - Dec/18.
GK614 KMJ 2000 – 2145 NRT 32A/320 Daily

Kansai – Kumamoto NEW 2 daily with A320-200.
GK671 KIX 0810 – 0935 KMJ 32A/320 Daily
GK673 KIX 1520 – 1645 KMJ 32A/320 Daily
GK672 KMJ 1005 – 1110 KIX 32A/320 Daily
GK674 KMJ 1715 – 1820 KIX 32A/320 Daily

Kumamoto – Chubu Centrair NEW 2 daily with A320-200.
GK681 NGO 1045 – 1210 KMJ 32A/320 Mo/Fr/Sa/Su *Oct/26 – Dec/15, Jan/9 - Feb/16.
GK681 NGO 1045 – 1210 KMJ 32A/320 Daily *Dec/19 - Jan/5, Feb/20 - Mar/28.
GK683 NGO 1235 – 1400 KMJ 32A/320 Tu/We/Th *Jan/6 - Feb/19.
GK683 NGO 1240 – 1405 KMJ 32A/320 Tu/We/Th *Oct/28 - Dec/18.
GK685 NGO 1805 – 1930 KMJ 32A/320 Daily
GK680 KMJ 0850 – 1000 NGO 32A/320 Mo/Fr/Sa/Su *Oct/26 – Dec/15, Jan/9 - Feb/16.
GK680 KMJ 0850 – 1000 NGO 32A/320 Daily *Dec/19 - Jan/5, Feb/20 - Mar/28.
GK682 KMJ 1050 – 1200 NGO 32A/320 Tu/We/Th *Oct/28 - Dec/18, Jan/6 - Feb/19.
GK684 KMJ 1620 – 1730 NGO 32A/320 Daily

For the Winter 2014/2015 schedule, Jetstar Japan will operate up to 52 daily round-trips (104 flights) covering 11 domestic destinations, an increase of 16 round-trips compared to one year ago. The recently launched Kansai base (Jetstar Japan launches Kansai hub.) will boast six destinations, including Fukuoka (FUK/RJFF), Oita (OIT/RJFO), Okinawa/Naha (OKA/ROAH), Sapporo/New Chitose (CTS/RJCC), and Narita. The LCC, owned 33.3% by Qantas Airways (QF/QFA), 33.3% by Japan Airlines (JL/JAL), 16.7% by Mitsubishi, and 16.7% by Century Tokyo Leasing, currently operates 18 A320s with the 19th due in October.

And noteworthy is their increasing presence at Nagoya's main airport, which until now has only maintained once daily service each to Fukuoka, Kagoshima (KOJ/RJFK), and New Chitose. AirAsia Japan (Mk II) is expected to launch with a hub at Chubu Centrair (AirAsia Japan selects Nagoya Chubu Centrair.) by July 2015 with initial flights to Fukuoka and New Chitose, and Jetstar Japan will probably try to make good use of their first-mover advantage to have themselves established in the market before the rivalry begins.

Reference: Jetstar Japan, August 20th. (PDF; in Japanese)

Fuji Dream orders up to six more Embraer E175s.

At the Farnborough International Airshow, Fuji Dream Airlines (JH/FDA) and Embraer announced that they have signed an order for up to six ERJ170-200s (E175s), consisting of three firm and three options. This order was already included in the Brazilian manufacturer's 2014 second quarter backlog as an undisclosed customer. Based on 2014 list prices, the order is valued at USD 258.6 million if all options are exercised.

Yohei Suzuki, CEO and Chairman of FDA, is congratulated by Paulo Cesar Silva, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation. Showing off a new colorful carp-themed model, is a new round of special liveries coming up at FDA? (Photo: Aviation International)

"E-Jets tick all the right boxes that have been crucial to the success of Fuji Dream Airlines - efficiency, performance, exceptional economics and solid customer support that is second to none," said Yohei Suzuki, CEO and Chairman of FDA, at the biennial event. "These technologically-advanced jets have proven themselves over the years and we are confident of its capability to help us profitably expand our network and enhance our frequency. The additions to our fleet will provide our customers greater flexibility and choices, as well as the superior comfort they have enjoyed on the E-Jets." Deliveries will start in March 2015 and one will be added each March until 2017.

The newly-ordered E175s will be configured in a single-class 84-seat layout and will be equipped with the auto-land system to perform ILS CAT III approach and landing in limited visual conditions. FDA flies scheduled services to Aomori (AOJ/RJSA) (CoachFlyer JH366: AOJ – NKM on Fuji Dream Airlines' Embraer E175.) and Sapporo/New Chitose (CTS/RJCC), both CAT III-equipped airports notorious for foggy springs and snowy winters. The new E175s will also feature recent aerodynamic enhancements, such as a new wingtip and other technical improvements that reduce fuel burn.

Embraer ERJ170-200/STD (E175) JA06FJ Purple departs from the Komaki hub in Nagoya with ERJ170-100/STD (E170) JA01FJ Dream Red and E175 JA05FJ Orange in the background. (Photo: FDA)

This order is a blow to the Mitsubishi Regional Jet family, the factory of which is ironically located at FDA's biggest hub at Nagoya/Komaki (NKM/RJNA). However, the MRJ has been plagued by development delays which have postponed first delivery by four years to April 2017, and FDA probably couldn't wait for that.

The Komaki-based airline currently operates five E175s and three ERJ170-100s (E170s). With the new additions, FDA intends to re-expand operations at Shizuoka (FSZ/RJNS), its headquarters and hometown of parent Suzuyo. Kumamoto (KMJ/RJFT) is rumored to be the top candidate. It had earlier postponed these plans, citing the airport's curfew between 2030 and 0730, which is based on an agreement with local communities and cannot be changed until 2015. Currently, FDA's Shizuoka operations see three daily flights to Fukuoka (FUK/RJFF), a daily flight to Kagoshima (KOJ/RJFK), and summer seasonal service to Sapporo/New Chitose (CTS/RJCC) with four weekly flights.

Now that most fingers point to an AirAsia Japan (Mk II) hub at Nagoya/Chubu Centrair (NGO/RJGG) (AirAsia Japan is officially reborn; first flight June 2015.), FDA will certainly be facing some new competition next year, though their location is at downtown Komaki and cater more to business travelers than leisure. How will FDA respond?

Reference: Embraer, July 15th. (in English)
Reference: PR Newswire, July 15th. (in English)

Skymark expands Yonago, axes Asahikawa and Kumamoto.

On April 1st, Skymark Airlines (BC/SKY) expanded their Yonago (YGJ/RJOH) focus city with the launch of double-daily Tokyo/Haneda (HND/RJTT) flights plus a daily round-trip each to Okinawa/Naha (OKA/ROAH) and Sapporo/New Chitose (CTS/RJCC). Two daily round-trips between Kobe (UKB/RJBE) and Sendai (SDJ/RJSS) were also started on the same day. Schedules were posted (Skymark announces Yonago and Sendai expansion.) in an earlier update. All are operated by 177-seat Boeing 737-800s.

Boeing 737-8FZ(WL) JA73ND taxies for departure at rainy Haneda. (Photo: Ryosuke Yano)

Skymark now offers non-stop services to five cities from Yonago, a city the airline only started serving on December 20th, 2013. Competitor All Nippon Airways (NH/ANA) flies six round-trips between Haneda and Yonago, while just 33 kilometers (20 miles) west at Izumo (IZO/RJOC), Japan Airlines (JL/JAL) operates five dailies to Haneda, along with five round-trips to Osaka/Itami (ITM/RJOO), three to Fukuoka (FUK/RJFF), and one to Oki (OKI/RJNO) flown by JAL subsidiary Japan Air Commuter (3X/JAC). Skymark saw a decently-sized market served only by legacy carriers with no near-term LCC penetration.

Skymark's short-skirt flight attendants on board their new Airbus A330. (Photo: Aviation Wire)

On the inaugural day, to the surprise of all, all flight attendants and some ground staff serving these four new routes, along with Okinawa/Naha (OKA/ROAH) - Ishigaki (ISG/ROIG), wore Skymark's controversial miniskirt one-piece uniform, which are to be introduced on the company's new Airbus A330s in May. It was only for this one day on April 1st, and was a play not only to promote the limited-time uniforms, but to probably convince the public that it is not a safety risk to passengers nor the flight attendants (Miniskirt turbulence at Skymark Airlines?).

Meanwhile on March 31st, Skymark operated their last flights to and from Asahikawa (AKJ/RJEC) and Kumamoto (KMJ/RJFT), with BC606 and BC208, services to Haneda, respectively. As a lower-cost carrier, Skymark's decision is quick, both when launching and abandoning new routes.

Source: Yomiuri Shimbun, April 1st. (in Japanese)

ANA Boeing 747 flies Sayonara and Kumamoto charters.

On March 16th, All Nippon Airways (NH/ANA), which is retiring the Boeing 747-400D on March 31st, operated 'Sayonara Flight Charter' and 'Kumamoto Scenic Flight' (ANA releases Boeing 747 Kumamoto charter schedule.) with the type. It is part of the airline's 'Final 747: Thanks Jumbo!' series of events commemorating the retirement of Boeing's Jumbo Jet.

Boeing 747-481/D JA8961 at Narita before departure. (Photo: Aviation Wire)

B747-481/D JA8961, the last remaining 'Queen of the Skies' with ANA, flew the event, which started off with flight NH2001 'Sayonara Flight Charter' from Tokyo/Narita (NRT/RJAA) to Kumamoto (KMJ/RJFT). After photograph opportunities from the apron at Narita, 524 participants, 13 cabin crew, and two cockpit crew boarded the aircraft for a 0941 departure. It took off from Runway 16R at 1006. All passengers were served a B747-decorated 'bento box' (lunch box) along with memorabilia by flight attendants wearing classic ANA uniforms from the past. On passing Mount Fuji, the crew lowered the altitude to 26,000 feet (7,900 meters) to provide good photo opportunities, and on the screens during the flight were B747 flight simulator takeoffs and landings recorded by the crew. NH2001 touched down at Kumamoto's Runway 25 at 1138 and arrived at the parking spot at 1143.

Back to the past: ANA's flight attendants wearing classic uniforms from past eras. (Photo: Aviation Wire)

After arrival, passengers were offered a chance to photograph the aircraft and flight attendants, and the two pilots told memories and stories of the 'Jumbo Jet'. After that, JA8961 flew NH2014, dubbed 'Kumamoto Scenic Flight' above Kyushu, which returned to the same airport. Due to time constraints, participants could only choose one of either NH2001/2002 or NH2014. Again on the flight, passengers were handed out memorabilia along with ample photograph opportunities. After arriving back at Kumamoto and offloading its passengers, JA8961 took off again to perform a touch-and-go.

A photo on ANA's 'Final 747: Thanks Jumbo!' website. (Image: ANA)

NH2002, the return leg of 'Sayonara Flight Charter' departed Kumamoto at 1850 and took off from Runway 25 at 1858. After cruising at 39,000 feet (11,900 meters), the aircraft made an autopilot touchdown on Narita's Runway 34L at 2018, and reached the gate at 2025.

This finishes the domestic series of events paying tribute to Boeing's 'Queen of the Skies', and only leaves the last revenue flight on March 31st, planned to be NH126 from Okinawa/Naha (OKA/ROAH) to Haneda. It will also make one last visit to Fukuoka (FUK/RJFF) on flights NH243/250 and Sapporo/New Chitose (CTS/RJCC) on flights NH069/074 on March 30th (ANA loads final Boeing 747 revenue flights.). The final part of 'Final 747: Thanks Jumbo!' will be taking participants to Tupelo (TUP/KTUP) (ANA announes final Boeing 747 farewell tour.) to see JA8961 arrive at the aircraft's final resting place in Mississippi, U.S.A. on April 17th.

Source: Aviation Wire, March 16th. (in Japanese)

JAL introduces WAON Jet.

On February 14th, Japan Airlines' (JL/JAL) latest special livery, dubbed 'WAON Jet', entered service. Its inaugural flight was JL1841, service from Tokyo/Haneda (HND/RJTT) to Nagasaki (NGS/RJFU).

Boeing 767-346 JA8364 'WAON Jet' awaiting its next flight at Haneda. (Photo: Ryosuke Yano)

Boeing 767-346 JA8364 was the chosen for the treatment, as part of 'Habatako Nippon! Mirai Wo Nosete' (Fly Japan! Carrying Our Future), a joint project of JAL and AEON, Japan's largest shopping mall developer and Asia's biggest retailer, to celebrate JAL Mileage Bank's (JMB) seventh anniversary of the JMB WAON Card. WAON is AEON group's electronic money system and JMB WAON Card members are able to earn miles using WAON they load on the card.

Close-up of the WAON Jet logo. (Image: AEON)

The special livery placed near the rear of the fuselage consists of WAON's mascot 'Happy WAON' and a mosaic image of Japan, which is an assemblage of 7,610 smiling faces selected from AEON and JAL customers who submitted their photos in November and December 2013. JA8364 will appear on routes from Haneda to Fukuoka (FUK/RJFF), Hakodate (HKD/RJCH), Izumo (IZO/RJOC), Kagoshima (KOJ/RJFK), Komatsu (KMQ/RJNK), Kumamoto (KMJ/RJFT), Matsuyama (MYJ/RJOM), Nagasaki, Osaka/Itami (ITM/RJOO), Sapporo/New Chitose (CTS/RJCC), Takamatsu (TAK/RJOT), and Tokushima (TKS/RJOS), and will remain in the livery until August 31st.

Source: AEON Retail WAON Jet (in Japanese)