Arkia's Direct Flight to Tokyo Delayed Due to Japanese Approval Issues
Translated & summarized from Calcalist by baba
Arkia Airlines' planned direct flights to Tokyo have been postponed because Japanese authorities have not yet approved the use of a wet-leased aircraft. The airline is pursuing approval for its own planes and hopes to resolve the issue in the coming weeks, with current delays affecting specific October and November 2026 dates. Affected passengers are offered alternative travel arrangements or refunds.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Arkia's direct flights to Tokyo are delayed due to Japanese regulatory approval issues.
- Japanese authorities have not yet approved the use of a wet-leased aircraft for the route.
- The airline is seeking approval to operate the route with its own planes.
- The delay impacts passengers booked on specific dates in late October and early November 2026.
- Arkia is offering affected passengers alternative flights, discounts, or full refunds.
- The situation underscores difficulties in launching long-haul routes via wet lease.
Arkia Airlines is facing difficulties launching its direct flight route to Tokyo, as Japanese authorities have not yet approved its operation using a wet-leased aircraft. A wet lease involves chartering an aircraft along with its crew, maintenance, and insurance, which Arkia intended to use to expand its flight schedule.
The airline has been working for months to secure the necessary permits and is simultaneously seeking approval to operate the route with its own aircraft. Arkia hopes to receive the approvals within the coming weeks.
This delay currently affects passengers booked on flights scheduled for October 25 and 28, and November 1 and 5, 2026. Passengers with reservations for later dates are not required to make changes at this time. Arkia is offering affected travelers three options: a flight to Tokyo via Bangkok or Hanoi with the airline coordinating the entire journey, a 10% discount on a new ticket to another destination, or a full refund for their canceled booking.
The situation highlights the challenges of launching long-haul routes using wet-leased planes and crews, even when the airline has available aircraft and a planned commercial route. Arkia has not abandoned the route and is continuing its efforts to gain approval from the relevant authorities for an expedited launch. Customers who booked directly with Arkia can contact a dedicated address for assistance.
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