ZIPAIR will launch low-cost service from Narita to LAX on Christmas Day
ZIPAIR is offering a Christmas present to anyone looking for a low-fare option between Tokyo and Los Angeles. Starting on Dec. 25, the airline will commence nonstop service between Narita International Airport (NRT) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Officials made the announcement at a press conference on Nov. 12.
The Tokyo-based airline is a subsidiary of Japan Airlines. It will operate three flights per week to Los Angeles on a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner with a 290-seat configuration.
"There is a growing demand for nonstop flights between LAX and Narita International Airport, and we are pleased that ZIPAIR shares our desire to provide additional options for our guests who want to experience the food, culture, art and history of Japan and the surrounding region," Becca Doten, deputy executive director of public and government affairs at Los Angeles World Airports said in the release announcing the new service.
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Reservations have opened for the new flights. TPG found one-way fares in January from LAX to NRT ranging from USD $361 for a "Standard Value" seat to $1,025 for a seat in "ZIP Full-Flat Value." (Airfares are slightly lower for travelers under the age of seven.)
Fares include taxes and fees, and one carry-on. Additional charges do apply for optional inflight meals, checked baggage and seat selection.
ZIPAIR prides itself on its "contactless inflight experience," which includes a self-ordering payment system for meals and goods through a personal smartphone or tablet. Its aircraft interiors have been treated with a "sustained antiviral and antibacterial coating." And it is using the digital VeriFLY app to check that passengers have complied with entry requirements
Related: The Best Ways to Travel to Japan With Points and Miles
"Our mission is to define a new standard in the air travel industry by offering a unique low-cost business model on long-haul international routes," said ZIPAIR Tokyo President Shingo Nishida at the press conference.
In addition to Los Angeles, ZIPAIR currently offers service to four international destinations: Bangkok, Seoul, Honolulu and Singapore.
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