Houston residents will have a new option to Tokyo when budget airline Zipair launches new flights for as little as $333 one way starting next March.
Zipair, a subsidiary of Japan Airlines, will connect Houston's Bush Intercontinental Airport and Tokyo's Narita Airport four days a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays starting March 4, 2025, the airport announced Wednesday. The flights, lasting almost 14 hours, will be carried out on Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners equipped with 18 reclining seats in business class and 272 seats in economy class.
The sub-$400 fare represents a significant savings compared to other airlines on the Houston-Tokyo route. All Nippon Airways (ANA) and United Airlines both offer daily flights with airfares starting at $595 one way for a basic, no-frills ticket next March. Prices then rise quickly.
“We look forward to welcoming new and seasoned travelers to enjoy our fully customizable travel experience, including free Wi-Fi service,” Shingo Nishida, president of ZipairTokyo, said in the announcement.
The promotional rate of $333 is available for sale on ZIPAIR's website until November 30.
Even though the new Tokyo route won't launch in time for Houstonians to use it Christmas and New Year trips this year, travelers will have a new affordable option for admiring Tokyo's famous cherry blossoms next spring. Visitors can enjoy a drink at the Park Hyatt Tokyo, famous for “Lost in Translation,” or explore the city's best luxury boutiques.
Sports fans and their families can even enjoy a Japanese baseball game.
“The new route between Houston and Tokyo will strengthen our trade ties with Japan and the broader Asia-Pacific region,” Houston Mayor John Whitmire said in a statement. “It will also bring more visitors to experience Houston’s vibrant culture, world-class healthcare and diverse industries.” »
Houston is ZIPAIR's fifth American destination after Honolulu, Los Angeles, San Franciscoand San Jose, California. The airline offers travelers connections to Bangkok and Singapore via Tokyo.
