Arkia Cancels Tokyo Flights After Failing to Secure Landing Permits
Translated & summarized from Globes by baba
Arkia has canceled its new direct flights to Tokyo after failing to secure necessary permits from Japanese authorities for "wet lease" operations. The airline had already begun selling tickets for the route, which was set to launch in October. Affected passengers are being offered alternative flights, different destinations, or full refunds as Arkia continues to seek approval.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Arkia canceled direct flights to Tokyo due to a lack of permits from Japanese authorities.
- Japan refused to allow Arkia to operate flights using a "wet lease" agreement.
- The airline had already started selling tickets for the route, which was set to begin in October.
- Arkia is offering passengers rebooking, alternative destinations, or full refunds.
- The airline stated it is still working to obtain the necessary approvals.
Israeli airline Arkia has been forced to cancel its planned direct flights to Tokyo, originally scheduled to launch in October, after failing to obtain the necessary permits from Japanese authorities. The airline had begun selling tickets for the popular route, which was intended to operate alongside El Al's services.
The core issue stems from Japan's refusal to permit Arkia to operate flights using a "wet lease" agreement, a practice where an airline leases a foreign aircraft along with its crew. Arkia currently utilizes wet leases for some of its other international routes.
In a statement, Arkia expressed regret over the situation, noting that despite months of effort and engagement with Japanese authorities, the permits for wet-leased operations were not granted. The airline stated it continues to work towards securing the necessary approvals.
Consequently, flights scheduled for October 25 and 28, and January 1 and 5, have been canceled. Arkia is offering affected passengers three alternatives: rebooking on a flight to Tokyo via an intermediate destination, choosing a different destination, or receiving a full refund. The airline emphasized its commitment to eventually operating the direct route to Tokyo, though questions remain about how the company committed to passengers without first confirming Japanese approval for its operational method.
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