Japan Airlines (JAL) has announced a major reduction in its Melbourne-Tokyo (Narita) route, cutting flights from six per week to just three between March 30 and October 25, 2025. The adjusted schedule will see flights from Melbourne departing on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, with return flights from Tokyo operating on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. To accommodate demand, JAL will add four extra flights in April.
Despite this reduction, JAL remains committed to the Australian market, with its Sydney-Tokyo Haneda service remaining unchanged. Meanwhile, the airline is expanding its long-haul operations with the introduction of a new daily Tokyo Narita-Chicago service starting May 31, 2025.
Contrasting Trends in Japan Travel Demand
The reduction in flights comes at a time when travel to Japan is booming. Qantas recently launched a new route to Hokkaido, and All Nippon Airways (ANA) has extended its Perth-Tokyo flights to a year-round service. The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) has reported record numbers of Australian visitors in 2024, and projections indicate even greater demand in 2025.
However, not all carriers have sustained their Japan routes. Virgin Australia announced in mid-2024 that it would discontinue its Cairns-Tokyo service by February 2025 due to challenges in maintaining profitability. This suggests that while demand for Japan travel is strong, operational factors such as fuel costs, aircraft availability, and strategic airline planning continue to shape route decisions.
JAL’s Strategy: Balancing Capacity and Innovation
As JAL scales back some international services, it is also enhancing its brand presence with creative marketing initiatives. One of its most eye-catching projects is the launch of the JAL x Universal Studios Japan Jet 2, a specially themed aircraft featuring beloved Nintendo characters like Super Mario and Donkey Kong.
This unique jet, operating primarily on domestic routes to Osaka, aims to offer a fun and immersive experience for travelers, especially families and gaming enthusiasts. Onboard, passengers can expect themed placemats, collectible stickers, and interactive branding that transforms a regular flight into an entertaining journey. The aircraft will be in service until June 2026, reinforcing JAL’s appeal to younger audiences and international tourists drawn to Japan’s pop culture.
Favorable Exchange Rates and Peak Travel Seasons
Another factor driving Japan’s tourism boom is the continued depreciation of the Japanese Yen, which makes travel to the country more affordable. In early 2025, the exchange rate hovers around 154 Yen per US dollar, allowing visitors to stretch their budgets further when it comes to accommodation, shopping, and dining.
This economic advantage aligns with peak travel seasons, particularly Japan’s famous cherry blossom season from late March to mid-April. The combination of attractive pricing and seasonal beauty is expected to drive an influx of tourists from Australia, the United States, and beyond.
Japan Airlines’ Competitive Landscape
JAL faces increasing competition from other major carriers expanding their Japan operations. Qantas’ new Hokkaido route and ANA’s extended Perth-Tokyo service reflect a broader trend of airlines capitalising on strong travel demand. To stay competitive, JAL is leveraging both its premium service reputation and innovative branding efforts like the Nintendo-themed aircraft.
Despite reducing flights on the Melbourne-Tokyo route, JAL’s overall strategy focuses on optimising capacity, enhancing passenger experiences, and investing in strategic long-haul expansions. Travelers looking to visit Japan in 2025 should book flights early, especially for peak seasons like cherry blossom season and major holiday periods.
While the cutbacks may disappoint some Melbourne-based travelers, Japan Airlines remains a key player in the region’s aviation market, balancing route efficiency with efforts to keep Japan one of the world’s most exciting and accessible destinations.
