Eyeing demand, Japan Airlines increases Bengaluru-Tokyo flights

Japan Airlines is all set to expand its connectivity between Tokyo and Bengaluru route amidst rising passenger demand on the route. The airline has announced five weekly flights starting end of October-2024. 

As of now, the airline offers three weekly flights connecting Bengaluru to Tokyo. Interestingly, Bengaluru airport is the only airport in South India offering direct flights to Japan, with Japan Airline being the only airline serving this route from Bengaluru. 

The airline has deployed its B787-8 aircraft on the route offering 186 seats in a two-class configuration. JAL's decision to expand its operations from three to five weekly flights has come in direct response to growing passenger demand from the Silicon Valley of India to far east. 

The airline hopes this increase connectivity will enhance passenger convenience and support regional economic growth.  

Japan Airlines launched the Bengaluru-Tokyo route in April 2020. Since then, the airline has seen a steady rise in passenger traffic. The airline carried 62,959 passengers in 2023 recording a whopping 167.55% increase as compared to 2022 when it flew 23,532 passengers, as per the figures from Bangalore International Airport (BIAL)

"This strategic decision will also strengthen our commitment to connecting Bengaluru to major global centres of commerce and tourism," said Satyaki Raghunath, chief operating office, BIAL.

Just last month, Japan Airlines placed a firm order for 20 A350-900 widebody aircraft and 11 single-aisle A321neo. The airline plans to deploy its A350-900 on international routes. It will be interesting to see if the airline will deploy one of its new A350s on this route, to delight the passengers.