AirAsia begins Manila-Tokyo service

Aviation Updates Philippines – On Wednesday, February 1, 2023, low-cost airline AirAsia Philippines began operating daily flights between Manila, Philippines, and Tokyo-Narita, Japan.

Handout from AirAsia Philippines

The maiden flight took off from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 at 4:15 AM and landed at Narita International Airport at 9:45 AM local time (8:45 AM PHT). The return flight left Narita at 11:25 AM local time (10:25 AM PHT) and arrived back in Manila at 2:55 PM.

The first flight to Tokyo, according to AirAsia, had an 84 percent load factor.

Guests on the inaugural flights received goodie bags from AirAsia's partner merchants, and they were also welcomed at Narita with a traditional water cannon salute.

Handout from AirAsia Philippines

In the upcoming months, the low-cost airline aims to fully restore its international capacity. The Tokyo-Narita route is anticipated to revive Japan as one of AirAsia's top East Asian destinations.

AirAsia Philippines Chief Executive Officer Ricky Isla said: “Our maiden flight to Tokyo is just one of the many regional destinations we plan to open this first quarter of the year  as we aim to fully restore our international capacity in coming months. Our commitment has always been about empowering Filipinos by providing them with best value deals to fulfill their travel goals.”

On the other hand, the airline is also introducing its largest baggage allowance yet at 60 kilograms. Passengers can check in as much baggage, as long as it falls within the weight limit, starting at PHP 1,280 for domestic flights and PHP 2,760 for international flights.

The new baggage option is readily available for purchase through the AirAsia website, mobile app, and authorized travel agents.