Aviation & Space News from Japan

Breaking News:　JAXA Successfully Launches H3 Rocket, Paving the Way for Ambitious Mars Mission

2026-10-20T08:28:11.407+09:00

Japan Successfully Launches H3 Rocket,

Paving the Way for Ambitious Mars Mission

JAXA

Japan’s space program marked a major milestone today with the successful launch of its flagship H3 rocket. The flawless liftoff not only restores confidence in Japan's space transportation capabilities but also officially signals the start of the country's next-generation interplanetary exploration, including key preparations for upcoming Mars missions.

Flawless Ascent and Orbital Insertion

The H3 rocket lifted off from the Tanegashima Space Center, ascending smoothly into clear skies. All stages performed nominal burn sequences, leading to the successful separation of its payload into the targeted orbit. The success comes as a welcome triumph for the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and primary contractor Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, demonstrating the reliability of the refined launch vehicle design.

Setting Sights on Mars

With the H3 launch vehicle fully operational and proven, attention now turns to deep-space exploration. The successful deployment validates crucial technologies required for upcoming robotic missions to Mars and its moons. Advanced autonomous systems, trajectory navigation, and heavy-payload capabilities provided by the H3 architecture will serve as the foundation for Japan's contributions to international Mars exploration efforts in the coming years.

Breaking News: Japan’s Global Hawk Loses Lost Off the Coast—First Time Ever One of the Three Aircraft in Service Has Gone Missing

2026-09-15T19:28:43.668+09:00

Breaking News: Japan’s Global Hawk Loses Communication Off the Coast—First Time Ever One of the Three Aircraft in Service Has Gone Missing

RQ-4B Global Hawk Unmanned Reconnaissance Aircraft (Japan Air Self-Defense Force)

Tuesday, September 15,7:00 p.m.JST

NHK News reported that an RQ-4B Global Hawk unmanned reconnaissance aircraft of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (jASDF)’s Misawa Air Base lost communication at approximately 12:58 p.m. on September 15 while flying over the ocean about 50 kilometers off the coast of Tottori Prefecture. Chief of the Air Staff of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force General Takehiro Morita, revealed this during a press conference held the same day. It is currently unknown whether the aircraft crashed, and the Self-Defense Forces are continuing their search.

Communication Lost Approximately 50 Kilometers Off the Coast of Tottori Prefecture

According to the Chief of the Air Staff, the aircraft that lost communication was one RQ-4B Global Hawk assigned to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force’s Misawa Base. Communication was lost at 12:58 p.m. on the 15th over the ocean approximately 50 kilometers off the coast of Tottori Prefecture.

In response, Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi issued three instructions at 1:29 p.m.: (1) to assess the status of the aircraft and conduct a prompt search; (2) to confirm the extent of damage in the surrounding area; and (3) to promptly provide information to the relevant local governments.

This is the first time a JASDF Global Hawk has gone missing

JASDF operates three RQ-4B Global Hawks, all of which are deployed at Misawa Air Base, northern part of the Honshu Island. The Chief of the Air Staff revealed that this is the “first time” a Global Hawk owned by the JASDF has gone missing.

When asked whether the aircraft was conducting a training exercise at the time communications were lost, he replied, “It was not a training exercise.” However, he did not disclose details regarding whether it was engaged in any mission, such as surveillance or patrol.

The RQ-4B is an unmanned aerial vehicle with no pilot on board. Authorities are currently investigating whether there were any abnormalities with the aircraft prior to the loss of communication.

Update, 7:18pm, September 15, JST

JASDF acknowledged that the missing RQ-4B must have been crashed as the floating debris were found to be parts of the aircraft.

Aiport offers Stafish as Wildlife Repellant to Mountain Community; This Could Only Happen in Japan, at leat now

2026-06-24T18:58:14.956+09:00

An airport provides starfish to a mountain village to protect tree plantings from wild animals. Sounds bizarre?

A Japanese business news site Jigyo Keikaku introduces an interesting collaboration between a private airport company and an inland mountain community.

Jigyo Keikaku
June 24, 2026

Centrair, Chubu International Airport Co., Ltd.

Chubu International Airport Co., Ltd. will begin full-scale implementation in 2026 of a resource recycling project that reuses starfish removed from the waters surrounding the airport as wildlife repellents in reforestation areas in Ono Town, Gifu Prefecture. As part of environmental conservation efforts in Ise Bay—where Chubu International Airport (Centrair), near Nagoya, operated by the company, is located—the project aims to utilize resources previously left unused in the ocean to address challenges in the mountains, thereby establishing a recycling model that “connects the sea and the mountains.”

Dried and crushed starfish has proven its effectiveness to repel wildlife.

Under the banner of “Protecting the Rich Seas of Ise Bay,” Centrair has been promoting the initiative “Building the Sea by Starting with the Mountains,” which supports forestation in the upper watersheds that sustain the marine environment. At the reforestation site in Ono Town, planted in 2023, damage to saplings caused by deer, wild boars, and other wildlife had become a problem. Meanwhile, in the waters surrounding the airport, starfish—which feed on bivalves and other marine life—are targeted for removal by fishermen. After placing dried starfish around the saplings, the initiative confirmed that this method effectively curbed damage caused by deer, wild boars, and palm civets. The project will begin in 2025, and in 2026, it will be implemented on a full-scale basis with the participation of the fishing industry. Moving forward, the project will also explore its application as a measure against bears.

The project is being carried out through a collaboration among three parties. Chubu International Airport Co., Ltd. is leading the afforestation activities and handling the drying and processing of the starfish. The Onizaki Fisheries Cooperative in Aichi Prefecture will procure and donate the starfish and participate in the installation work. Ono Town in Gifu Prefecture will be responsible for installing the starfish in the reforestation areas and measuring their effectiveness.

This initiative, in which starfish—which were originally targeted for eradication—now hold value in the mountains, serves as an example of finding new uses for underutilized fishery resources.

A key feature of this project is the collaboration among organizations from different sectors—the airport, the fisheries cooperative, and local governments—to simultaneously address two regional challenges: marine environmental conservation and wildlife damage in the mountains. Masaki Hirano, an executive director at the Onizaki Fisheries Cooperative, highlighted the significance of cooperating in this “cycle where what is a problem in the sea becomes a valuable resource in the mountains.” Akizo Usami, mayor of Ono Town, praised the initiative for balancing resource recycling with the conservation of the local natural environment and expressed his intention to continue the demonstration project with a view to expanding it to protect crops and address bear-related issues.

Flying Boat Drone Takes Flight in Earthquake-hit Northern Japan

2026-06-01T06:45:57.384+09:00

From Minamisoma: Flying Boat Drone Takes Flight for Reconstruction From Yahoo News

March 11, 2026

Flying Boat-Type Unmanned Aerial Vehicle “Hamadori”

Hama Corporation (Minamisoma City, Fukushima Prefecture; President: Masataka Kaneda) develops and manufactures various UAVs, including the seaplane-type unmanned aerial vehicle “Hamadori” (pictured), capable of fully automated water takeoffs and landings. Primarily expected for use in marine-related industries and disaster prevention/defense fields, the “Hamadori” was also deployed for marine surveys and photography during the January 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake.

The company participated in the “Fukushima Innovation Coast Initiative Media Presentation” held on March 6 at Takanawa Gateway City (Minato Ward, Tokyo). President Masataka Kaneda presented the company's business activities at the event as one of the startups and expanding companies driving the initiative and advancing business development originating from Fukushima.

President Kaneda stated the following:

　“Our company is a startup selected for ‘J-Startup TOHOKU’ (a program by the Tohoku Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry and Sendai City for companies expected to achieve dramatic growth in the Tohoku region). A key feature is our flagship product: a uniquely designed seaplane-type unmanned aerial vehicle capable of water takeoff and landing, developed entirely in-house.”

　He further explained, "While many people imagine drones as having multiple upward-facing propellers, our aircraft features fixed wings—large main wings similar to those on conventional airplanes. This design generates lift during forward motion, enabling efficient flight. Consequently, it can fly for extended periods and over long distances. Furthermore, it can take off and land using the water surface of oceans, rivers, or lakes as a runway. While fixed-wing aircraft can fly long distances, they require a certain speed to take off, necessitating long runways. Such locations are scarce in Japan. We focused on flat, open areas within the country – specifically, water surfaces. Our aircraft can automatically take off and land on water, even in rough open-ocean conditions with waves. This technology, enabling such operations, has no practical implementation examples worldwide."

　“Previous drones only observed water surfaces or ground from the air. We are developing unprecedented drone applications that enable underwater observation using acoustic sensors from the water surface and communication with underwater equipment,” he added.

　What is the meaning behind the company name “Hama”? “It comes from the ‘hamaya’ (luck-bringing arrow), an auspicious item granted at shrines during New Year's and other occasions. Amidst the growing demand for drones in disaster prevention and security fields, we want to create unmanned aircraft technology that protects lives from disasters striking Japan and the world. We drew on the symbolism of the hamaya, an auspicious item, for this aspiration.”

Following his presentation, Hamada Corporation President Kaneda spoke with Denpa Times:

"Our goal in developing the flying boat-type drone was to achieve automatic takeoff and landing even on rough open seas with swells. While flat water surfaces like lakes are easy for taxiing, swells create a truly bumpy runway—like an airplane taking off from a rugged surface—which presented significant technical challenges. We started testing on flat water surfaces and established takeoff and landing procedures. But the moment we took it to the swell-filled open ocean, it just didn't work at all. We damaged several units during development.“

”Ultimately, by thoroughly pursuing the optimal hardware design for achieving the control methods and realizing that control, we succeeded in enabling automatic takeoff and landing even on swell-filled open oceans," he stated.

　He further emphasized, “Since this is precision equipment used in an environment where seawater constantly splashes onto it, seawater—the enemy most hostile to electronics—was the biggest challenge. Achieving proper waterproofing in such an incompatible environment inevitably adds weight, which degrades performance for a flying drone. Therefore, we put considerable effort into balancing how to ensure minimal waterproofing without increasing weight.”

The shape itself resulted from extensive trial and error—a design that easily lifts off the water surface, aerodynamic features enabling quick takeoff, and the placement of the propulsion system.

Mr. Kaneda concluded by sharing his thoughts on Fukushima's recovery.

"What we felt when we visited Fukushima was the keyword ‘creative recovery,’ not just simple reconstruction. It's not just about restoring things to how they were, but creating an industrial hub that grows beyond that. We deeply resonated with the effort to transform the region into something better after suffering damage. We're conducting this project hoping to be one example contributing to that progress. Seeing our technology gradually start to help with disaster prevention and mitigation is truly rewarding for us as developers and engineers."

Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning's J-15 fighter jet locks radar on Japanese Air Force F-15 fighter twice； Tokyo protests to Beijing

2025-12-07T13:29:02.337+09:00

Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning's J-15 fighter jet locks radar on Japanese Air Force F-15 fighter twice； Tokyo protests to Beijing

2025/12/07 02:54 JST (Updated 2025/12/07 05:29 JST)

Japan and China have been exchanging harsh words over Taiwan since PM Tkaitchi stated that if Taiwan’s security is threatened by Chinese invasion, it would be regarded as a critical issue of Japanese security.

China’s J (upper)-15 and Japan’s F-15

The Yomiuri Shimbun reported that Defense Minister Koizumi held an emergency press conference in the early hours of the 7th, revealing that on the afternoon of December 6, a J-15 fighter jet launched from the Chinese Navy's aircraft carrier Liaoning twice directed radar at an Air Self-Defense Force F-15 fighter jet over international waters southeast of Okinawa Island. The Japanese government protested to China via diplomatic and defense channels on December 7, calling it a dangerous act that could lead to unforeseen incidents.

Defense Minister Koizumi explains the radar lock incident involving a Chinese military aircraft (early morning of the 7th, at the Ministry of Defense)

This is the first time the Japanese government has publicly disclosed an incident where a Self-Defense Forces aircraft was locked on by radar from a Chinese military aircraft. According to the Ministry of Defense, the first radar lock occurred from around 4:32 PM to around 4:35 PM on the 6th. The second lock occurred from around 6:37 PM to around 7:08 PM, targeting a different Self-Defense Forces aircraft.

In both cases, the SDF aircraft detected the locking. The Japanese and Chinese fighter jets were at a distance beyond visual range. There was no damage to the SDF aircraft or personnel.

The Liaoning was confirmed sailing near Kuba Island, west of Okinawa Island, on the afternoon of the 5th. On the morning of the 6th, it passed between Okinawa Island and Miyako Island, accompanied by three missile destroyers, and entered the Pacific Ocean. Subsequently, around 270 kilometers west of Okidaito Island, carrier-based fighters and helicopters took off and landed, prompting Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) fighters to scramble.

Fighter aircraft radars are used not only for fire control to lock onto targets as part of the preparation for firing, but also for search operations. However, because the radar was intermittently locked on for a certain period of time, the Ministry of Defense judged it to be a dangerous act targeting the SDF aircraft. At a press conference, Koizumi stated, “This was a dangerous act exceeding the scope necessary for the safe flight of aircraft, and it is extremely regrettable.”

Regarding the Chinese military, a similar incident occurred in January 2013 when a frigate directed its fire control radar at a Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer.

(Translated by this blog)

Chinese Consul General in Osaka Publicly Blackmails PM Takaichi to Murder Her

2025-11-10T17:37:00.000+09:00

Is he a real diplomat? Or a gangster? Chinese Consul General in Osaka: “That filthy neck must be beheaded” — Posting on Prime Minister Takaichi's response regarding a Taiwan contingency---It appears he cowardly fled the country, before the Japanese government would call me a persona non grata

Chinese Consul General Xue Jian in Osaka

On November 9, Sankei Shimbun's website reported that Chinese Consul General Xue Jian in Osaka posted his remarks on X (formerly Twitter) by quoting Asahi Shimbun Digital Breaking News on the previous day titled “Prime Minister Takaichi: Taiwan Contingency ‘Could Become a Crisis of Existence’ - Use of Force Possible if Recognized” writing: “That filthy neck that dared intrude will be severed without a moment's hesitation. Are you prepared?”

Content posted by Chinese Consul General Xue Jian in Osaka on the 8th; as of 7:30 PM on the 9th, it could no longer be verified.

As of 7:30 PM on the 9th, Mr. Xue Jian's post could no longer be verified. Sankei Shimbun attempted to contact the Osaka Consulate General to confirm the facts and intent but was unable to reach them.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated at the House of Representatives Budget Committee on the 7th regarding issues surrounding Taiwan, “Our traditional position is to expect a peaceful resolution.” She added, “What constitutes a ‘crisis of national survival’ (enabling the exercise of collective self-defense) must be comprehensively judged based on each specific situation.”

She further pointed out, “It is conceivable that China could impose a naval blockade using warships, and that the U.S. military might come to the aid of Taiwan to lift such a blockade, leading to the use of force to prevent that.” She stated, “It is extremely important to anticipate every possible worst-case scenario. If it involves the use of force by warships, I believe it could undoubtedly constitute a situation threatening Japan's survival.”

“To avoid national annihilation”

On the 9th, Xue Jian updated his X account, posting: “‘Taiwan emergency is Japan's emergency’ is a path to death chosen by some foolish Japanese politicians.” He argued, “It is an excessively reckless attempt that disregards the obligations of a defeated nation and completely forgets the former enemy state provisions of the UN Charter.”

He further stated, “I earnestly hope they regain at least a minimum of rationality and respect for the law, so that they never again suffer a national catastrophe like defeat.”

A RAF F-35B fighter jet makes emergency landing at Kagoshima Airport;

2025-08-11T07:49:00.002+09:00

NHｋ

NHK news website reported the following:.

On the morning of the 10th, a British Royal Air Force fighter jet made an emergency landing at Kagoshima Airport in Kirishima City, Kagoshima Prefecture. According to the airport office, there were no injuries, and the airport is currently operating as usual.

According to the Kagoshima Airport Office, at around 11:30 a.m. on the 10th, a Royal Air Force F-35B fighter jet made an emergency landing at Kagoshima Airport.

　According to the airport office, the pilot of the fighter jet had previously contacted air traffic control, stating, “There is a possibility of mechanical issues, and we would like to make an emergency landing.”

　No injuries were reported as a result of the landing.

　As a result, the airport runway was closed shortly after 11:30 a.m., but operations resumed approximately 20 minutes later after the fighter jet was moved to the taxiway and safety was confirmed.

　As of 5 p.m., the fighter jet remains near the runway.

　Due to this incident, six flights departing from and arriving at Kagoshima Airport were delayed by about 20 minutes, but the airport is currently operating as usual.

Ministry of Defense: “British aircraft carrier-based fighter jet lands due to mechanical failure”

　According to the Ministry of Defense, the aircraft that landed at Kagoshima Airport was a British stealth fighter jet, the F-35 B.

　The aircraft is a carrier-based fighter from the British Royal Navy's aircraft carrier “Prince of Wales” and landed at Kagoshima Airport due to mechanical issues.

　The　Royal Navy is currently deploying several ships, including the “Prince of Wales,” in the Western Pacific and conducting joint training exercises with the Japanese Self-Defense Forces and the U.S. military until the 12th.

Editor Visits JMSDF Museum in Kure, Hiroshima

2025-07-11T07:02:00.006+09:00

The editor visited the Maritime Self-Defense Force Kure Museum (Tetsu no Kujira Kan) in Kure City during his vacation.

This is an impressive museum with the decommissioned submarine ex-Akishio (JS Akishio, SS-579) standing on the grounds.

Before visiting, the editor had assumed it was a submarine-specialized facility typical of Kure, a city known for its submarine base.

The museum is a three-story building, with the first floor dedicated to an overview of the Maritime Self-Defense Force, and the third floor focused on submarines, from which visitors can enter the adjacent Akishio.

However, the second floor was dedicated to mine-sweeping operations conducted by the Maritime Self-Defense Force. Before entering, the editor was unsure what mine-sweeping entailed and had planned to move quickly to the third floor.

However, the experience left a profound impression. At the time of Japan's surrender in 1945, over 60,000 mines remained in Japanese waters, and the task of removing them to resume maritime traffic fell to the remaining ships and personnel of the Imperial Japanese Navy. At that time, the Maritime Self-Defense Force had not yet been established, but mine clearance operations continued with its establishment in 1954.

The exhibition efficiently showcased this history, along with equipment used in mine clearance operations, replica mines, and even the latest FRP-made minesweepers. The outstanding achievements and accumulated technology of the MSDF have also contributed to international cooperation, which is something all Japanese people can take pride in. However, as is typical of the modest MSDF, there was no grand message. In other words, while it may be acceptable that mine clearance operations, which played such a significant role in post-war reconstruction, have not received the spotlight they deserve, it is important to recognize that maintaining peace comes at a cost.

The capabilities of the Self-Defense Forces are unique and unmatched, but it is not widely acknowledged that they are an organization dedicated to preventing war, rather than engaging in it as some critics suggest. Despite the brief visit, it was a thought-provoking experience. For more information on the submarine exhibition, please refer to other blogs or websites.

JMSDF Kure Museum (Nickname: Tetsu no Kujira Kan)

5-32 Takara-cho, Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture

Admission: Free

10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Last admission at 5:30 PM). Closed on certain days; please check in advance. Access: 5-minute walk from JR Kure Station via the pedestrian deck.

Final Unit of H2A Successfully Launches Global Warming Monitor Satellite in Orbit, New Generation H3 Standing By

2025-06-29T08:23:00.003+09:00

June 29, 2025

H2A Rocket Unit 50 launched from the Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture at 1:33 a.m. on the 29th

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries launched the final H2A rocket, the 50th in the series, early on Saturday, placing the “Ibuki GW” satellite, which monitors greenhouse gases, into its target orbit in space.

This marks the 49th successful launch out of 50 attempts. After more than 20 years of supporting Japan's space development, the H2A rocket has concluded its mission with a successful final launch, passing the baton to its successor, the H3 rocket.

The H2A rocket No. 50 was launched at 1:33 a.m. on the 29th from the Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture.

The separation of the solid rocket boosters and the fairing, which protects the satellite from high temperatures and vibrations, as well as the combustion of the second-stage engine, proceeded as planned. Approximately 16 minutes later, the “Ibuki GW” was separated and successfully placed into its target orbit in space.

The H2A is a large-scale core rocket developed as the successor to the H2.It completed its first launch in 2001 and has since achieved success in all launches except for the sixth mission in 2003.

It has been responsible for launching numerous satellites essential to Japan's national security and social infrastructure, including information-gathering satellites and weather satellites operated by the Cabinet Secretariat, as well as the asteroid probe “Hayabusa 2” and the lunar probe “SLIM (Slim),” which achieved Japan's first lunar landing.

Ambitous Airline from Japan Eyes to Restart its International Service from New Airport

2025-06-12T10:24:00.002+09:00

Skymark Aims to Reenter the International Market---The independent Japanese airline once challenged international service

12 June 2025

The Editor

In conjunction with the start of international flight service of Kobe Airport, Skymark Airlines announced in its May 15, 2025 financial results that it will re-enter the international flight market.

First, Skymark will operate several charter flights in FY2025 to study the business potential for international flight development. It is also clearly stated in its annual business policy.

Although Skymark has not clarified the Japanese origin and destination, Kobe Airport is expected. as Kobe Airport is Skymark's Kansai base; it opened its Terminal 2 building on April 18, 2025 and began accepting international charter flights.

Kobe Airport aims to begin operating scheduled international flights around 2030, and Skymark is expected to look to switch from charter flights to scheduled flights around that time.

Kobe Airport (UKB), Obayashi Corp.

Are destinations in East Asia?

Overseas destinations are also undecided, but since the company only owns Boeing 737 aircraft, it is expected to be in East Asia.

Previous international charter flights from Kobe Airport have been to Incheon, Shanghai, Nanjing, Taipei, and Taichung. Skymark is also likely to offer flights to any of these three countries.

We do not know whether Skymark will fly to/from airports that overlap with these countries or choose different airports, but if they aim for different cities, Busan, Kaohsiung, or Hong Kong would be candidates.

Will the Saipan route be revived?

Skymark made its first foray into international flights with the Narita-Saipan in November 2019. However, the service was forced to be suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic, and it has not been restored.

The Marianas Visitors Authority has been pushing Skymark to reopen the Saipan route. Therefore, the resumption of the Saipan route would be considered. However, inbound traffic has been stronger recently than in 2019, and the Saipan route, with its strong outbound traffic, may not seem to be a high priority.

Still, a variety of destinations will be considered during the charter phase, and the Saipan route will likely be revived as one of them.■

Centrair (IATA airport code NGO won the best Regional Airport Award by SKYTRAX for 11 consecutive years!

2025-04-16T15:35:00.007+09:00

Central Japan International Airport, known as Centrair, near Nagoya, was ranked first in the world for the 11th consecutive year in the "Regional Airport" category and for the 15th consecutive year in the "Regional Airport in Asia" category in the latest customer service evaluation of international airports conducted by SKYTRAX (U.K.).In the "Regional Airport in Asia" category, the airport was ranked No. 1 for the 15th consecutive year.Centrair, in addition to its traditional reputation for cleanliness, received particularly high marks this year in the areas of airport staffing and security inspections.

New Side Business of Japan Airlines: Curry in Pack

2025-03-02T06:57:00.000+09:00

A airline specialized website Flight Aware reported an interesting story about Japan Airlines (JAL) in the Japanese language as follows

JAL Lounge Beef Curry Sales Surpass One Million Servings; Campaign Includes Spoon Not for Sale

By Yusuke KOHASE

　Japan Airlines and its affiliated trading company JALUX announced on February 28 that the total sales of the popular "JAL Special Original Beef Curry" menu has surpassed 1 million servings.A campaign to commemorate the achievement will be launched in March, and a talk event with actor and musician Nao Matsushita will also be held.

JAL Special Original Beef Curry" (courtesy of JALUX), which has sold more than 1 million servings

JALUX

A not-for-sale curry spoon (provided by JALUX) will be given away to those who purchase the "JAL Special Original Beef Curry" sold by JALUX.

　Two types of campaigns are being offered: for the purchase of 10 servings or mileage award redemption, an original, not-for-sale curry spoon will be given away.Ten lucky winners will also win a lounge curry plate.Purchases and redemption between March 3 and May 6 at the "JAL Shopping JAL Mall Store" mail order site or the JAL website "JAL Totto Oki no Ippin" will be eligible.

　A campaign will also be held on X (formerly Twitter): follow JAL's official X account and post your JAL Curry photo and feedback on X with the hashtags "#JAL Curry" and "#JAL Curry 1 Million Servings Commemorative".JAL LOUNGE Curry Man, which is served at the international first class lounge, will be given away.The campaign period is from March 3 to May 6.

　A talk event will be held in Tokyo at the end of March.The details of the event will be announced on the campaign website on May 6.Matsushita often flies on JAL flights in her private life, so she will be sharing her own experiences at the event.

　In addition, JALUX's original "JAL SELECTION" brand food products, such as curry and curry buns, will be sold in stores and at Tsutaya Denki in Futakotamagawa, Tokyo, on March 27 and 28.

　JAL Special Original Beef Curry is a popular menu item offered at international JAL lounges in Haneda and Narita.Sales began in August 2020, after 90% of international flights were suspended due to the Corona disaster and the lounge curries lost their place.Initially sold in 1 kg packs, it will be sold in individual 200 gram packages from February 2023.In January of this year, it was also sold inside the ticket gates of JR Shinagawa Station (related article).

JAL Collaborates with a start-up to Commercialize Space Tours by Balloon, Leveraging its Know-how in Aviation Business

2025-01-20T17:05:00.003+09:00

January 20, 2025

edited by Aviation and Space News from Japan

Travel Voice https://www.travelvoice.jp/ reports a new venture by Japan Airlines and a balloon flight startup aiming at launching commercial near space tourism.

Iwatani Giken and Japan Airlines (JAL) announced that they will collaborate to commercialize and popularize space flight experiences.JAL is participating in the "OPEN UNIVERSE PROJECT," a co-creation project sponsored by Iwatani Giken, and will collaborate to create new value by utilizing the knowledge and assets accumulated through the JAL Group's air transportation business.

The "OPEN UNIVERSE PROJECT" is a space tourism project for the private sector, which is being co-created by companies and organizations in a variety of industries with the aim of making space travel safe, secure, and affordable for everyone.

Iwatani Giken, headquartered in Ebetsu City, Hokkaido, is a start-up company involved in the balloon-based space business.

H3 Launch Vehicle No. 4 Successfully Launches Defense Communication Satellite "Kirameki -3" into Orbit

2024-11-04T19:35:00.000+09:00

November 4、2024

JAXA

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries launched the fourth unit of H3, Japan’s domestic developed launch vehicle, from the Tanegashima Space Cente at 3:48 p.m today. The launch was a success, and the Defense Communication Satellite "Kirameki 3" was injected into orbit.

It was the third consecutive successful launch for the H3 rocket since the second launch. The SRB-3 auxiliary booster was separated about three minutes after liftoff.

Thereafter, the launch went smoothly, with the completion of the first stage engine burn, separation of the first and second stages, and two burns of the second stage engine, after which the payload, Kirameki 3, was separated and injected into a geostationary transfer orbit, an orbit intermediate to the geostationary orbit.

The Kirameki 3, an X-band defense communications satellite for the Ministry of Defense, will be used for information and communications such as command and control, which is important for the operation of the Self-Defense Forces' units.

The first and second Kirameki 3 satellites have already been launched, and the launch of the third satellite will establish a three-satellite system. The Kirameki series is characterized by broadband communications capable of transmitting and receiving image and video data, and is useful for secure communications during overseas operations, etc.

The cost of the development and operation of the No. 3 launch vehicle was approximately 70 billion yen. ■

JAL Changes Boarding Order on Domestic Flights to Smoother Method

2024-09-15T11:18:00.004+09:00

JAL Changes Boarding Order on Domestic Flights to Smoother Method with Tokyo Tech Collaboration; International Flights Now Guided by LINE

September 13, 2024 #LINE Yahoo #Japan Airlines (JAL)

Travel Voice, a Japanese travel business news site reported the following.

JAL has changed the boarding procedure on wide-body aircraft with two aisles in the cabin on domestic flights. This change is being implemented after joint research with Professor Toshiyasu Obutsu of the Tokyo Institute of Technology's School of Environmental and Social Science and Engineering revealed a boarding method that is expected to reduce in-flight congestion on wide-body aircraft more than the current method.

An image of the revised boarding process by JAL for Airbus A350-900

The organization of groups to be called in order at boarding will be changed. Group 3, which is called after pre-boarding and priority boarding (Group 1 and 2), was previously seats after 40 and emergency exit row seats, but will be changed to seats after 40, window-side A and K seats, and emergency exit row seats; Group 4 will be changed from seats after 20 to all seats; and Group 5 will be eliminated. Group 4 will be changed to all seats from number 20 onward, and Group 5 will be eliminated.

From the press release The boarding bridge aisle that passengers pass through when boarding will also be changed. For aircraft that use two boarding bridges, the boarding bridge aisle has been guided according to the class of service. From now on, the system will be changed to guide passengers by row for standard seats. This will alleviate congestion near the doors, according to the company.

The Tokyo Institute of Technology's research used a 360-degree camera installed in the cabin to measure the movements of passengers during boarding, and built a unique boarding simulation model based on the data obtained. The optimal boarding method was derived from this simulation model by conducting approximately 1,000 trials of multiple scenarios, changing the boarding order and other factors.

On September 18, 2024, JAL will begin using LINE's corporate function "LINE Notification Message" on international flights to provide boarding information and other information based on individual reservations to passengers on international flights.

Up until now, LINE has only provided a service to notify information on the status of flights scheduled for international flights, while information on reservations and boarding has been provided via e-mail and the JAL application.

After the renewal, LINE will use "LINE Notification Messages" to provide information on flight status, boarding procedures, when check-in has not been completed, information on passing through security checkpoints, flight cancellations and delays, and other flight status information.

Next Time You Arrive at Haneda, You Can Go to your Hotel Free From Your Baggage

2024-08-31T07:05:00.003+09:00

Same-Day Luggage Delivery Service at Haneda Airport For Visitors to Japan

A Japanese startup, ecbo (Shibuya-ku, Tokyo), announced on August 19 that it has partnered with Keihin Electric Express Railway. On April 19, ecbo announced the start of a demonstration experiment of a "same-day luggage delivery service for foreign visitors to Japan" at Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station in cooperation with Keihin Electric Express Railway Co.

The service also aims to attract an increasing number of foreign visitors to Japan and to tourist attractions along the line. The service is available with advance reservations through a multilingual website. Prices start at 2,000 yen per piece of luggage within Haneda Airport. The service is available at a special counter in Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station on the Keikyu Airport Line from 9:00 to 15:00. Delivery is available to hotels and lodging facilities in the 23 wards of Tokyo, Kawasaki City, and Yokohama City.

ecbo won the "President's Award" in the second phase of the "KEIKYU ACCELERATOR PROGRAM," an open innovation program conducted by Keikyu Corporation and Samurai Incubate (Minato-ku, Tokyo) to create new businesses aimed at revolutionizing mobility. During the four-month program in 2019, the company conducted a demonstration test of luggage storage at stores along the Keikyu railway line, and actually accepted more than 3,000 pieces of luggage, 50 times the number of coin-operated lockers at Keikyu Shinagawa Station.

This clearly demonstrated the demand for luggage storage, as well as the burden placed on tourists when traveling with large luggage and the congestion on the trains and in the stations. The company has focused its attention on Haneda Airport, the gateway to Tokyo, which is located along the Keikyu Railway line and is frequented by foreign visitors to Japan carrying large luggage, and will launch a demonstration experiment of a "same-day luggage delivery service for foreign visitors to Japan" on January 19. This service aims to realize comfortable and smooth access to the airport by eliminating congestion in the station and trains caused by large baggage, as well as by verifying the needs of the increasing number of foreign visitors to Japan and attracting more passengers to tourist spots along the train line.

H3 Launch Vehicle Test Flight No. 3 Successfully Launched; More Than 70,000 People Cheered from the Ground via JAXA's Live Broadcast

2024-07-01T21:04:00.004+09:00

JAXA

H3 Heavy Launch system JAXA

Advanced radar sattelite “DAICHI-4”（ALOS-4）

July 01, 2024 12:47 JST Published

On July 1, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) successfully launched the third test flight of its next mainstay rocket, the H3, in a live broadcast on JAXA's official YouTube channel that was viewed by over 72,000 people at one point, probably because it was lunchtime.

One minute and 57 seconds after liftoff, the H3 Test Flight No. 3 jettisoned the SRB-3 booster, followed by the separation of the first stage engine and the firing of the second stage engine. The separation of the Advanced Radar Satellite "Daichi No. 4" (ALOS-4) was confirmed about 16 minutes after liftoff, as scheduled.

The control room immediately after the successful jettison of the Daichi-4. Relief and applause could be heard.

Daichi-4 is an "advanced radar satellite" equipped with L-band synthetic aperture radar, the successor to Daichi-2. The newly adopted digital beam forming technology will maintain the high spatial resolution of Daichi-2 (3 m) while expanding the observation range by a factor of four (200 km).

This will increase the frequency of observations of crustal and ground deformation. It is expected to play an important role in efforts to mitigate disasters, such as understanding the situation in the event of an earthquake or other disaster.

In March 2011, JAXA failed to launch the first test model of the H3 rocket and lost the onboard advanced optical satellite "Daichi III. In February of this year, JAXA successfully launched Test Flight No. 2, releasing the small satellite CE-SAT-IE, which was developed by Canon Electronics Inc.

Isao Furuya, an engineer at JAXA's Space Transportation Engineering Division, who was in charge of technical commentary during the live broadcast, said, "With this success, H3 has proved that it can launch a real satellite. We can say that we have started to move toward full-scale operations. He also said that they are preparing to launch a fourth test satellite, and asked for support for the launch in the not-too-distant future.

One Year after the Disappointing Destruction of the Command: Developers' Prayers Supported by Daichi No. 4

Daichi-2, which is currently in operation, is equipped with radar that can make observations at night and in bad weather, and was able to detect the uplift of up to 4 meters caused by the Noto Peninsula earthquake in January and the flooding of the Kuma River during the heavy rainfall in Kumamoto in July 2020. This information is conveyed to the government and local governments, and is also used to determine where to place supplies and personnel.

However, the design life of the Daichi-2, which was launched in 2002, is five to seven years, and it could be out of service at any time.

The launch of Daichi No. 4 has been hurried because of the loss of Daichi No. 3 (development cost: JPY28.2) due to the launch failure of H3 No. 1.

Compared to the No. 2, the No. 4 satellite has a four-fold wider range of observation capability and improved accuracy. As a result, the frequency of observation of all of Japan will increase from four times a year to 20 times a year.

In addition to responding to disasters, the new satellite can also be used for early detection of abnormalities, such as signs of volcanic eruptions and land subsidence.

The system will also be used to detect, within millimeters, whether dams and levees are warped due to aging, and to receive information on the type and location of vessels for use in operational management. The system is also expected to be used for agricultural policy by identifying the area of rice paddies planted in various regions of the world.■

New F-35 Engine Maintenance Deport Starts Operation in Tokyo from June 30

2023-07-01T15:22:00.005+09:00

Japanese aviation website Flyteam reported the start of operation at maintenance of jet engines for the F-35 in Tokyo.

The Ministry of Defense has opened an engine (F135 turbofan engine) maintenance depot for the F-35A/B Lightning II fighter jet and began operations on June 30, 2023. The U.S. government decided in December 2014 to establish F-35 engine maintenance bases "Regional Depots" in Japan and Australia in the Asia-Pacific region, and the IHI Mizuho Plant in Nishitama-gun, Tokyo, was designated to assume this role.

This will enable maintenance and refurbishment of engines for the F-35 (F135 turbofan engines) operated by Japan and other countries in the Asia-Pacific region, including periodic inspections, overhauls (overhauls), and inspections, to be performed in Japan. In the Asia-Pacific region, the Air Self-Defense Force, the U.S. Air Force, the Republic of Korea Air Force, and the Royal Australian Air Force operate the F-35A, and the U.S. Marine Corps operates the F-35B.

IHI Mizuho Plant has been performing final assembly and inspection of the new F-35 engine (F135 turbofan engine), and will also have overhaul capabilities. The aircraft itself can be serviced at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in Aichi Prefecture, near Nagoya, thus strengthening the operational system in Japan.■

Recommended for Aviation Lovers: Stay at JAL Flight & Red Suite at Grand Nikko Tokyo Daibal Hotel

2023-06-24T08:56:00.001+09:00

The new "JAL FLIGHT & RED SUITE" at Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba

ITmedia Business Online reported an attractive hotel package for aviation enthusiasts who stay closer to Tokyo’s Haneda before flights.

Japan Airlines (JAL) has announced the addition of a new guest room at the Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba hotel, inspired by the first class lounge at Haneda International Airport. The new guest room is called "JAL FLIGHT & RED SUITE.”

A flight simulator will be installed in the bedroom to create an extraordinary experience that allows guests to feel the seat move and vibrate along with the flight controls.

The new suite will be located on the 28th floor of the Executive Lounge, where guests can enjoy a spectacular view of the bay area. The suite consists of two rooms: a living room with a lounge atmosphere and a bedroom with a flight simulator (X-Plane 12). 　In the living room, a signboard with the JAL logo, and "RED SUITE" is installed. An air route map (en route chart) is installed on one wall to create a sense of excitement as one prepares for the journey in the sky.

　Rates start at JPY98,000 (USD695) per room for two persons (including breakfast, service charge, and tax). The available period is limited from July 15, 2023 to July 14, 2024. 　■

https://news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/17772d538f8a9d2e429c341584408ac1d8d8f418

6/24 (Sat) 8:05

Next time, Fly from Centrair NGO Airport, if you are a Priority Pass member---Free Ofuro/Massage with Meals

2023-04-09T13:22:00.001+09:00

Centrair Chubu International Airport, serving Nagoya and its vicinity in Central Japan, has added two facilities for free access by Priority Pass holders.

One is THE PIKE BREWING RESTAURANT ＆ CRAFT BEER BAR inside Flight of Dreams where the first example of Boeing 787 is permanently exhibited. The Restaurant offers up to JPY3,400 worth of meals and drinks of choice by presenting your Priority Pass.

Another new addition is KUTSUROGI-DOKORO (Fourth Floor, Main Building), a complex of spa-hot bath (ofuro) and restaurant. A Priority Pass holder can claim a set menu from the following three choices:

Spa menu worth JPY3,400
Bathing + Korean dish +One alcoholic beverage or one soft drink with ice cream
Bathing + Nagoya delicacy dish +One alcoholic beverage or one soft drink with ice cream

Noteworthy is your bathing experience looking down the runway from above, unless you do not mind sharing a big bathtub with others.

Enjoy your travel from Centrair, next time.

(All photos from Centrair website.)

Is this a bargain? Starflier's Housing + Unlimited Round trip Subscription Service for Remote Workers

2022-10-15T07:11:00.005+09:00

Living in Fukuoka and Commuting to Tokyo, Housing and Unlimited Round trips in All-in-One Package, New Subscription Service by STARFLIER for Remote Workers

Nikkei reported the new subscription service by Starflier on October 12:

Starflier will launch a subscription service by spring 2023 that combines rental housing in Fukuoka Prefecture, Kyushu, with airfare between Tokyo and Fukuoka. The service will encourage company employees in the Tokyo metropolitan area, who often work remotely, to relocate to Fukuoka. In principle, the service will allow unlimited air travel, which will lead to a recovery in yield that has dropped due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Starflier Chairman Tomonori Yokoe told the Nihon Keizai Shimbun (Nikkei), "We will launch a subscriber program by spring 2023 that includes rent for an apartment or house and a round-trip ticket between Kitakyushu Airport and Haneda Airport. We hope to announce the outline of the service as early as by the end of this year," he said.

Yokoe explained that the target users of the new service are "company employees who live in rental apartments in Tokyo with their families. He hopes to set the monthly fee at the same level as the rent of an apartment for a family in the 23 wards of Tokyo. The family will be able to move to a property in Fukuoka and fly to Tokyo whenever they need to for work or other reasons. He emphasizes, "If they can live in a larger house in Fukuoka for about the same rent as in Tokyo, and also have unlimited access to airplanes, we will increase the satisfaction of our customers.

Users will be able to make reservations for airline tickets by accessing a members-only page. The monthly fee is expected to be in the JPY 200,000 (USD1,350 up) range, but Mr. Yokoe said, "There is an opinion within the company that 300,000 to 400,000 yen would be preferable," and that the details will be worked out in the future. While he stated that "there is no point in subscriptions if you can't fly whenever you need to," he added that he was still considering whether to include peak periods, such as the year-end and New Year holidays, in the unlimited travel period.

Fukuoka City is home to many branches and offices of large corporations, and corporate demand for single workers is also expected.

Mr. Yokoe commented on the airline business, "Basically, it is a fixed-cost business. In order to recover the business performance that deteriorated due to the Corona disaster, we need to reduce the number of empty seats on board," he explains. Starflier's average occupancy rate for the fiscal year ended March 2010 was 52.6%, down about 22 points from the pre-Corona disaster level in the fiscal year ended March 2007.

The standard break-even point for an airline is said to be a boarding rate of about 70%. With remote work taking root, there is a strong possibility that business travel demand will not return to the same level as before the COVID disaster. In order to return to profitability, which had been in the red for three consecutive years until the previous fiscal year, it is essential to cultivate demand from non-business travelers. The airline companies' new subscription plans are expected to capture the demand for regional migration in the aftermath of the Corona disaster.

Yokoe came to Starflier from Hankyu Corporation, a major private railway company. He was asked by Advantage Advisors (Minato, Tokyo), an investment company that supports Starflier, to become chairman in late June, together with President Osamu Machida, who transferred from All Nippon Airways (ANA). Although he has no experience in the airline industry, he is expected to develop services from an outsider's perspective.

He confided that when he solicited ideas for new services within the company after assuming the chairman's position, "we received 120 replies. He plans to launch a new project, including the person who proposed the idea as a member, with the aim of commercializing the service.

ShinMaywa Develops Unmanned Seaplane for Commercial Applications

2022-09-12T07:32:00.001+09:00

ShinMaywa Develops New Unmanned Sea Plane Prototype before Commercial Use by Larger version

Unmanned flying boat takes off from the sea and successfully performs a figure-eight turn. 4-minute demonstration off the coast of Kobe;

An unmanned aerial vehicle flies at an altitude of about 20 meters above the Port of Kobe under automatic control on September 2 (photo by Asako Nagamine)

Hyogo Keizai Plus reported a new seaplane prototype by ShinMaywa that succeeded in first flight off Kobe.

September 9, 2022

　ShinMaywa Industries, Ltd. of Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture, has been developing an unmanned flying boat that can take off and land on water. The aircraft made a figure-eight turn twice under automatic control, and when it landed on the water, it was greeted with applause from the audience.

　The aircraft is 3 meters long, 4 meters wide, and 0.9 meters high. It is made of light and strong carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) and weighs less than 25 kg. It is equipped with an electric twin propeller and cruises at a speed of about 60 km/h. A flight demonstration was held in Kobe, Japan. The flight demonstration was part of the "First Drone Summit" held in Kobe.

ShinMaywa Industries' unmanned aerial vehicle is taken out to sea for a flight demonstration at Minatojima 1, Chuo-ku, Kobe on September 2.

　The development of the drone is aimed at improving and passing on the skills of engineers and tapping into the demand for unmanned aircraft due to the shortage of manpower in the aviation industry. It combines technology cultivated through the manufacture of the Maritime Self-Defense Force's US-2 rescue amphibian, the only one in the world capable of taking off and landing in the open sea, with a previously developed fixed-wing unmanned aircraft system capable of staying in the air for long periods of time.

　The intended applications include transporting underwater drones and submersibles that survey resources and energy on the seafloor to their destinations and recovering them, as well as transporting supplies to remote islands. According to the company, the new aircraft is being developed with research into onboard sensors and flight control in mind, and a larger size is essential for commercialization.

　During the flight demonstration, the aircraft was operated manually for takeoff and landing to ensure safety, but in theory, it is capable of fully automated flight. Satoshi Komatsu, manager of the Systems Section of the Engineering Department of the company's Aircraft Division, said, "We hope to bring this into reality within a few years.

Japanese Aviation Venture Company introduces Super-compact Turbine Generator for Drones

2022-07-09T11:24:00.002+09:00

Super-compact gas turbine generator applicable to drones emerges with output of 1 kW/kg per Kg

Ultra-compact gas turbine generator exhibited by ADJ

MONOIst　https://monoist.itmedia.co.jp/　reported on June 22:

Air Develop Japan (ADJ) https://aerodevelop.jp/ presented an ultra-compact gas turbine generator for large drones at Japan Drone 2022 (June 21-23, 2021, Makuhari Messe).

The developed ultra-compact gas turbine generator has an output of 30 kW for a weight of 30 kg, achieving an output per weight of 1 kW/kg, whereas the output per weight of drone power sources is about 0.2 kW/kg for lithium-ion batteries and 0.6 kW/kg for fuel cells.

When this ultra-compact gas turbine generator is applied to a large drone, it is expected to achieve an on-board weight of 50 kg and a flight time of one hour. “We have already received orders for large drones," said an ADJ representative.

ADJ will continue to develop a larger power output, targeting 500 kW, for use in flying vehicles that can carry multiple passengers. “In addition to large drones and flying vehicles, we would also like to take advantage of the high output per unit weight to develop applications such as portable emergency generators," said the ADJ representative.

2022/06/28 JMSDF Saved Three Americans in Wrecked Yacht in the Pacific Ocean

2022-06-29T15:27:00.002+09:00

The following announcement was made on June 29 by the Japan Joint Staff Office (JJSO). I would like you to see the location of this rescue on the map.

This incident was a good demonstration of Japan’s air search and rescue capabilities.

JJSO

Map showing the recovery point, as far as 780 km from Naha, Okinawa and 1,620 km from Iwakuni, Yamaguchi.

On Tuesday, June 28, 2022, at approximately 1030, the Japan Coast Guard The 11th Regional Coast Guard Headquarters informed the Maritime Self-Defense Force Air Group Headquarters (Atsugi/Ayase City, Kanagawa Prefecture) of a rescue request from the captain of a yacht with three Americans aboard, located approximately 780 km southeast of Okinawa Island.

The 11th Regional Coast Guard Headquarters of the Japan Coast Guard reported that the captain of a yacht with three Americans on board requested rescue at about 780km southeast of the main island of Okinawa.

At 1104 on the same day, the Commander of the 11th Regional Coast Guard Headquarters of the Japan Coast Guard requested the Commander of the Maritime Self-Defense Force Air Group to dispatch a disaster relief team to the area. The request was accepted at the same time.

At 1915 on the same day, as the three rescuers were transported to Naha Airport, the Commander of the 11th Regional Coast Guard Headquarters of the Japan Coast Guard requested the Commander of the Maritime Self-Defense Force Air Group to dispatch a disaster relief team.

The Commander of the 11th Regional Coast Guard Headquarters requested the Commander of the Maritime Self-Defense Force Air Group to withdraw from the disaster relief mission, and all activities were terminated. Response by the Ministry of Defense and the Self-Defense Forces

On Tuesday, 28th (1500), a P-3C aircraft of the Maritime Self-Defense Force's 5th Air Group (Naha, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture) arrived at the site and confirmed the yacht's position.

At 1628 on the same day, a US-2 aircraft of the Maritime Self-Defense Force's 31st Air Group (Iwakuni, Yamaguchi Pref.) arrived in the area　and began rescue operations. All three rescuers were taken in and left the area at 1714.

On the same day at 1915, transport of three rescuers to Naha Airport was completed.

US-2 amphibious flying boat leaving the area after rescue.

JJSO

STARFLYER starts In-flight service to accommodate pets in the cabin

2022-03-05T17:25:00.006+09:00

REANIMAL, a Japanese new site dedicated to animals reported the new in-flight service for passengers traveling with their pets.

STARFLIER’s website

STARFLYER https://www.starflyer.jp/en/ has announced that it will launch "FLY WITH PET!", Japan's first in-flight pet service for domestic scheduled flights, in the summer timetable of 2022. The service will begin on March 27, and sales have started from January 27, with reservations accepted through the website.

As the needs for air travel diversify, the Northern Kyushu-based company has been conducting a series of verification flights to confirm the feasibility to introduce a service to allow passengers to fly with their pets. Based on the results, the company has implemented thorough allergy countermeasures under the guidance of veterinarians and physicians, utilizing research results and other findings, and will launch the service officially.

The service will be available on four round-trip flights per day on the Haneda-Kitakyushu route, and up to one pet can accompany the passenger on each flight. The fee is 50,000 yen (USD 430) per pet. Only small dogs and cats that can fit into a pet cage of the company's specified size (within 50 x 40 x 40 cm) are allowed. The pet cage will be placed on the window side of the last row, row 27, and the pet owner will sit in the seat next to the pet cage, Star Flier says.

Pets cannot be taken out of the cage or fed during the flight but can be watered using a water dispenser. In addition, there is no oxygen mask for pets, and aviation law does not allow emergency evacuation with pets.

The conditions under which pets are allowed to accompany passengers in the cabin include: the pet must be in good health, must be well tamed, must be well trained, and must have completed various vaccinations. The pet must also wear a pet diaper in advance. For detailed conditions and precautions, please refer to the company's website.■

Aviation & Space News from Japan

Breaking News: JAXA Successfully Launches H3 Rocket, Paving the Way for Ambitious Mars Mission

Japan Successfully Launches H3 Rocket,

Paving the Way for Ambitious Mars Mission

Flawless Ascent and Orbital Insertion

Setting Sights on Mars

Breaking News: Japan’s Global Hawk Loses Lost Off the Coast—First Time Ever One of the Three Aircraft in Service Has Gone Missing

Breaking News: Japan’s Global Hawk Loses Communication Off the Coast—First Time Ever One of the Three Aircraft in Service Has Gone Missing

Communication Lost Approximately 50 Kilometers Off the Coast of Tottori Prefecture

This is the first time a JASDF Global Hawk has gone missing

Aiport offers Stafish as Wildlife Repellant to Mountain Community; This Could Only Happen in Japan, at leat now

An airport provides starfish to a mountain village to protect tree plantings from wild animals. Sounds bizarre?

Jigyo Keikaku

June 24, 2026

This initiative, in which starfish—which were originally targeted for eradication—now hold value in the mountains, serves as an example of finding new uses for underutilized fishery resources.

Flying Boat Drone Takes Flight in Earthquake-hit Northern Japan

From Minamisoma: Flying Boat Drone Takes Flight for Reconstruction From Yahoo News

March 11, 2026

Flying Boat-Type Unmanned Aerial Vehicle “Hamadori”

President Kaneda stated the following:

“Previous drones only observed water surfaces or ground from the air. We are developing unprecedented drone applications that enable underwater observation using acoustic sensors from the water surface and communication with underwater equipment,” he added.

Following his presentation, Hamada Corporation President Kaneda spoke with Denpa Times:

”Ultimately, by thoroughly pursuing the optimal hardware design for achieving the control methods and realizing that control, we succeeded in enabling automatic takeoff and landing even on swell-filled open oceans," he stated.

The shape itself resulted from extensive trial and error—a design that easily lifts off the water surface, aerodynamic features enabling quick takeoff, and the placement of the propulsion system.

Mr. Kaneda concluded by sharing his thoughts on Fukushima's recovery.

Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning's J-15 fighter jet locks radar on Japanese Air Force F-15 fighter twice； Tokyo protests to Beijing

Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning's J-15 fighter jet locks radar on Japanese Air Force F-15 fighter twice； Tokyo protests to Beijing

2025/12/07 02:54 JST (Updated 2025/12/07 05:29 JST)

Defense Minister Koizumi explains the radar lock incident involving a Chinese military aircraft (early morning of the 7th, at the Ministry of Defense)

In both cases, the SDF aircraft detected the locking. The Japanese and Chinese fighter jets were at a distance beyond visual range. There was no damage to the SDF aircraft or personnel.

Regarding the Chinese military, a similar incident occurred in January 2013 when a frigate directed its fire control radar at a Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer.

Chinese Consul General in Osaka Publicly Blackmails PM Takaichi to Murder Her

Is he a real diplomat? Or a gangster? Chinese Consul General in Osaka: “That filthy neck must be beheaded” — Posting on Prime Minister Takaichi's response regarding a Taiwan contingency---It appears he cowardly fled the country, before the Japanese government would call me a persona non grata

Chinese Consul General Xue Jian in Osaka

Content posted by Chinese Consul General Xue Jian in Osaka on the 8th; as of 7:30 PM on the 9th, it could no longer be verified.

As of 7:30 PM on the 9th, Mr. Xue Jian's post could no longer be verified. Sankei Shimbun attempted to contact the Osaka Consulate General to confirm the facts and intent but was unable to reach them.

“To avoid national annihilation”

He further stated, “I earnestly hope they regain at least a minimum of rationality and respect for the law, so that they never again suffer a national catastrophe like defeat.”

A RAF F-35B fighter jet makes emergency landing at Kagoshima Airport;

Editor Visits JMSDF Museum in Kure, Hiroshima

Final Unit of H2A Successfully Launches Global Warming Monitor Satellite in Orbit, New Generation H3 Standing By

June 29, 2025

H2A Rocket Unit 50 launched from the Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture at 1:33 a.m. on the 29th

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries launched the final H2A rocket, the 50th in the series, early on Saturday, placing the “Ibuki GW” satellite, which monitors greenhouse gases, into its target orbit in space.

This marks the 49th successful launch out of 50 attempts. After more than 20 years of supporting Japan's space development, the H2A rocket has concluded its mission with a successful final launch, passing the baton to its successor, the H3 rocket.

The H2A rocket No. 50 was launched at 1:33 a.m. on the 29th from the Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture.

The H2A is a large-scale core rocket developed as the successor to the H2.It completed its first launch in 2001 and has since achieved success in all launches except for the sixth mission in 2003.

Ambitous Airline from Japan Eyes to Restart its International Service from New Airport

Skymark Aims to Reenter the International Market---The independent Japanese airline once challenged international service

In conjunction with the start of international flight service of Kobe Airport, Skymark Airlines announced in its May 15, 2025 financial results that it will re-enter the international flight market.

First, Skymark will operate several charter flights in FY2025 to study the business potential for international flight development. It is also clearly stated in its annual business policy.

Although Skymark has not clarified the Japanese origin and destination, Kobe Airport is expected. as Kobe Airport is Skymark's Kansai base; it opened its Terminal 2 building on April 18, 2025 and began accepting international charter flights.

Kobe Airport aims to begin operating scheduled international flights around 2030, and Skymark is expected to look to switch from charter flights to scheduled flights around that time.

Are destinations in East Asia?

Overseas destinations are also undecided, but since the company only owns Boeing 737 aircraft, it is expected to be in East Asia.

Previous international charter flights from Kobe Airport have been to Incheon, Shanghai, Nanjing, Taipei, and Taichung. Skymark is also likely to offer flights to any of these three countries.

We do not know whether Skymark will fly to/from airports that overlap with these countries or choose different airports, but if they aim for different cities, Busan, Kaohsiung, or Hong Kong would be candidates.

Will the Saipan route be revived?

Skymark made its first foray into international flights with the Narita-Saipan in November 2019. However, the service was forced to be suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic, and it has not been restored.

Still, a variety of destinations will be considered during the charter phase, and the Saipan route will likely be revived as one of them.■

Centrair (IATA airport code NGO won the best Regional Airport Award by SKYTRAX for 11 consecutive years!

New Side Business of Japan Airlines: Curry in Pack

JAL Collaborates with a start-up to Commercialize Space Tours by Balloon, Leveraging its Know-how in Aviation Business

H3 Launch Vehicle No. 4 Successfully Launches Defense Communication Satellite "Kirameki -3" into Orbit

JAL Changes Boarding Order on Domestic Flights to Smoother Method

Next Time You Arrive at Haneda, You Can Go to your Hotel Free From Your Baggage

H3 Launch Vehicle Test Flight No. 3 Successfully Launched; More Than 70,000 People Cheered from the Ground via JAXA's Live Broadcast

New F-35 Engine Maintenance Deport Starts Operation in Tokyo from June 30

Recommended for Aviation Lovers: Stay at JAL Flight & Red Suite at Grand Nikko Tokyo Daibal Hotel

Next time, Fly from Centrair NGO Airport, if you are a Priority Pass member---Free Ofuro/Massage with Meals

Is this a bargain? Starflier's Housing + Unlimited Round trip Subscription Service for Remote Workers

ShinMaywa Develops Unmanned Seaplane for Commercial Applications

Japanese Aviation Venture Company introduces Super-compact Turbine Generator for Drones

Super-compact gas turbine generator applicable to drones emerges with output of 1 kW/kg per Kg

2022/06/28 JMSDF Saved Three Americans in Wrecked Yacht in the Pacific Ocean

STARFLYER starts In-flight service to accommodate pets in the cabin

Breaking News:　JAXA Successfully Launches H3 Rocket, Paving the Way for Ambitious Mars Mission

　“Previous drones only observed water surfaces or ground from the air. We are developing unprecedented drone applications that enable underwater observation using acoustic sensors from the water surface and communication with underwater equipment,” he added.