Arkia's New Tokyo Route Faces Uncertainty Weeks Before Launch
Translated & summarized from Israel Hayom by baba
Arkia's new direct flight route to Tokyo, set to begin on October 25, is in jeopardy due to landing permit issues with Japanese authorities. Passengers have received cancellations as the airline scrambles to find an alternative aircraft or solution. The route is a significant move for Arkia into long-haul travel.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Arkia's new Tokyo route faces uncertainty weeks before its October 25 launch.
- Japanese authorities have not yet approved landing permits for the leased aircraft.
- Passengers who booked tickets have already received cancellation notices.
- Arkia is exploring alternative aircraft and solutions to salvage the route.
- The route is a key part of Arkia's expansion into long-haul flights.
Arkia's new route to Tokyo, scheduled to launch on October 25, is encountering significant difficulties. Passengers who had already booked tickets for the flights have received cancellation notices from the airline. The core issue appears to be related to operational permits for the aircraft intended for the route. Sources familiar with the matter indicate that Japanese authorities have not yet approved the landing of the leased aircraft Arkia plans to use, and the airline has not secured the necessary landing permits.
Arkia had initially planned to operate the route using an Airbus A330-200 from Portugal's Hi Fly. This plan was later changed, and the airline prepared to use an Airbus A340-300 from Germany's USC. The current problem stems from the lack of landing approval from Japanese authorities for this latter aircraft.
In response to this setback, Arkia is actively exploring alternative solutions to ensure the flights can still commence as planned. The uncertainty surrounding the Tokyo route, considered a key initiative for Arkia's expansion into long-haul flights, represents a significant development for both the airline and its customers who have already purchased tickets.
