Airport News Japan

New Regional Flights from Shizuoka Airport - Small Jets to Komatsu, Kumamoto, Kagoshima

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Flight attendant's uniform for FDA Photo:FDA

On July 25, Fuji Dream Airlines (FDA), based in Aoi Ward, Shizuoka, announced that it will establish a hub at Shizuoka Airport (between Makinohara and Shimada, Shizuoka Prefecture) in March of next year, and operate regular passenger flights starting the following summer to Komatsu, Kumamoto and Kagoshima.

The regional airline company, which will connect to regional airports with small jets, was established in June of this year with a 100% investment by Suzuyo, an integrated logistics services company located in Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka. There will be two flights daily (one round-trip flight) on each route, and the jets flown will be twin-engined ERJ170s (seating for 72 passengers) manufactured by the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer.

According to the company's business plan, the flight schedules will be set for mornings and evenings to efficiently take passengers to the destinations. While offering residents of Shizuoka Prefecture enjoyable air travel, it is expected that local businesses and demand for tourism stand to benefit. Fares will be “midway between a reserved seat and a green seat on the bullet train”, with the goal of a 70% boarding rate.

Flights to New Chitose and Fukuoka by JAL, to New Chitose and Naha by ANA, and to Seoul by South Korean carrier Asiana Airlines have been scheduled.