Air Transport

ANA to discontinue AirJapan carrier by March 2026

Japanese holding cites aircraft delivery delays and operational challenges in decision to consolidate low-cost operations
Ricardo Meier

ANA Holdings will retire the AirJapan brand by the end of March 2026, ceasing all operations from its Tokyo-Narita base. The decision was announced as part of a wider review of group strategy.

The company cited industry-wide supply chain disruptions and aircraft delivery delays as primary factors behind the move. These pressures have affected AirJapan’s ability to sustain operations since its launch.

AirJapan began operations in 2024, offering flights from Tokyo-Narita to Bangkok, Singapore, and Seoul. The airline represented ANA's attempt to expand its presence in the low-cost segment with a large fleet of Boeing 787 jets, consisting of 36 787-8 aircraft, 39 787-9 aircraft, and three 787-10 aircraft.

After AirJapan’s withdrawal, ANA Holdings will maintain only two airline brands: its mainline ANA service and the Peach low-cost subsidiary. This is aimed at streamlining operations and focusing on markets with higher demand.

The Boeing 787-8 is configured with 324 seats (ANA)

“This decision is aimed at maximizing the group’s profitability and competitiveness by responding flexibly to recent changes in the business environment,” a spokesperson for ANA Holdings said.

ANA Holdings recently reported a quarterly operating profit of Y60.8 billion (approximately $395 million) for the period ending 30 September, a 22% decline year-on-year. The result highlights ongoing margin pressures in the Japanese aviation sector.

AirJapan will operate its final flights on 28 and 29 March 2026, after which its network will be absorbed or discontinued as part of the group’s restructuring.

About the Author

Ricardo Meier

Ricardo Meier

Creator of the website that started in 1996 as a magazine. He also writes on Brazilian websites AUTOO, MOTOO and MetrôCPTM.

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