Zipair will launch a new route from Houston to the Japan capital next year.
By Edward Russell Published on October 11, 2024
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Houston residents will have a new option to Tokyo when budget airline Zipair launches new flights for as low as $333 one way beginning next March.
Zipair, a subsidiary of Japan Airlines, will connect Houston’s Bush Intercontinental Airport and Tokyo’s Narita Airport four-days-a-week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from March 4, 2025, the airport announced Wednesday. The nearly 14-hour flights will be on Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners with 18 lie-flat business class seats and 272 economy seats.
The under-$400 fare comes as a big savings compared to other airlines on the Houston-Tokyo route. All Nippon Airways (ANA) and United Airlines both offer daily flights with airfares starting at $595 one way for a basic, no-frills ticket next March. Prices climb quickly after that.
“We look forward to welcoming new and seasoned travelers to take advantage of our fully customizable travel experience, including complimentary Wi-Fi service” Shingo Nishida, President of ZipairTokyo, said in the announcement.
The promotional $333 fare is available for sale on ZIPAIR’s website through Nov. 30.
While the new Tokyo route won’t be launched in time for too for Houstonians to take Christmas and New Years trips this year, travelers will have a new affordable option to see Tokyo’s famed cherry blossoms next spring. Visitors can get a drink at the Park Hyatt Tokyo of “Lost in Translation” fame, or check out the city’s top luxury shopping scene.
Sports fans and their families can even take in a Japanese baseball game.
“The new route between Houston and Tokyo will strengthen our business ties with Japan and the broader Asia-Pacific region,” said Houston Mayor John Whitmire in a statement. “It will also bring more visitors to experience Houston’s vibrant culture, world-class healthcare and diverse industries.”
Houston is ZIPAIR’s fifth U.S. destination after Honolulu, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Jose, Calif. The airline offers travelers onward connections to Bangkok and Singapore via Tokyo.