Japanese budget carrier ZIPAIR Tokyo is expanding its transpacific routes with a new non-stop service connecting Houston with Tokyo starting in March. Despite being relatively unknown in the U.S. market, the airline is making up for lost time and expanding in Asia and North America. The route from Houston to Tokyo will operate four times weekly using Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners sourced from Japan Airlines.
ZIPAIR’s decision to fly to Texas was influenced by the state becoming more business-friendly and having a growing population, as well as being home to over 50 Fortune 500 companies. However, the airline will face competition from United Airlines and Japan’s All Nippon Airways, which already offer daily services between Houston and Tokyo. To attract passengers, ZIPAIR is offering promotional one-way fares from Houston to Tokyo for $333, with regular fares around $450 each way.
In terms of strategy, ZIPAIR operates on an a la carte basis, requiring passengers to pay for extras, including inflight meals. The airline also offers a business class option with lie-flat beds and other amenities typically found on full-service airlines. ZIPAIR aims to be a “New Basic” airline that combines the cost control of a low-cost carrier with the aesthetic details associated with Japanese airlines, providing a unique travel experience to passengers.
The decision to expand its routes comes at a time of increasing inbound tourism to Japan, with a projected 35 million foreign visitors expected in a year, surpassing previous records. The Japanese government has plans to attract 60 million visitors annually by the end of the decade, with tourism spending expected to reach significant levels. However, the influx of international travelers has also brought challenges such as concerns about overtourism at popular tourist sites in the country.
Despite the airline’s push into new markets and the potential for increased tourism in Japan, ZIPAIR passengers transiting in Houston may face some challenges due to the lack of transit partners for easy connections. Travelers will need to go through immigration procedures and check their luggage again for onward flights. This lack of partnerships may affect the airline’s ability to attract passengers who prefer seamless travel experiences with multiple airlines.
In conclusion, ZIPAIR’s entry into the Houston-Tokyo route represents a bold move by the Japanese budget carrier to compete with established carriers on a popular transpacific route. The airline’s unique business model and focus on providing a modern and efficient travel experience may appeal to passengers looking for affordable options with added services. However, the lack of transit partners for onward connections may pose a challenge in filling planes profitably and attracting passengers who prioritize convenience in their travels.
