ZIPAIR is bringing back nonstop passenger flights between Orlando International Airport and Tokyo Narita International Airport after strong demand for its inaugural service earlier this year.
The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) announced during its monthly Board meeting that the airline will operate three additional open passenger charter flights on August 8, 13, and 18. Bookings are expected to open in mid-June.
The February and March flights marked the first nonstop open passenger charter service between Florida and the Asia Pacific region. Airport officials said the new flights build on efforts to establish regular scheduled service between Orlando and Tokyo.
“The excitement surrounding ZIPAIR’s first flights exceeded expectations and sent a clear message that travelers want this connection,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which manages MCO.
“The return of service is an exciting milestone and another sign that Orlando continues to strengthen its position as a truly global gateway,” he added.
ZIPAIR operates the flights from Terminal C at Orlando International Airport. The airline’s return follows more than 30 years of efforts to create regular nonstop service between Central Florida and Japan.
“The success of ZIPAIR’s inaugural flights validated years of work and collaboration among our Air Service Development team and valued tourism and community partners,” said Vicki Jaramillo, Chief Commercial Officer for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority.
“Travelers have embraced this service, and we are optimistic that this momentum will continue to create opportunities for future growth,” she added.
International travel at Orlando International Airport has continued to grow in recent years. GOAA said MCO welcomed approximately 1.4 million more international visitors in 2025 than in 2023.
MCO is Florida’s busiest airport, the ninth busiest in the United States, and the world’s 25th busiest airport. The airport serves nearly 58 million annual passengers across Terminals A, B and C.
During the same Board meeting, GOAA also approved acceptance of a $2.5 million Public Transportation Grant Agreement from the Florida Department of Transportation.
The funding, provided through the Federal Highway Administration, will support roadway improvements to Jeff Fuqua Boulevard and Station Loop Road at MCO to improve traffic efficiency around the airport.
