JAL Group Announces FY2025 Winter Schedule for International and Domestic Routes
The JAL Group has officially unveiled its flight schedule for the 2025 winter season, covering both international and domestic operations. Running from October 26, 2025, through March 28, 2026, the winter schedule reflects the airline’s continued focus on meeting robust passenger demand, supporting inbound tourism, and strengthening its role as a global and domestic connector. With a balance of expanded international services, upgraded aircraft, and increased frequencies on key domestic routes, Japan Airlines (JAL) aims to deliver enhanced convenience and comfort to its customers while contributing to community development and cultural exchange.
Expanding International Network
Responding to Inbound Travel Demand
JAL continues to see strong demand from inbound travelers, particularly from Australia, China, and Europe, and the winter 2025 schedule has been carefully structured to capture this momentum. Two key international developments will define the season:
- Daily Service Between Narita and Melbourne
To meet rising demand from both leisure and business travelers between Japan and Australia, JAL will increase flights on the Narita–Melbourne route from three weekly services to a daily operation. This marks a significant capacity enhancement, ensuring more convenient options for passengers traveling between the two regions. The route is particularly important given the steady growth of inbound tourism from Australia, as well as increasing corporate and educational exchanges between the two countries. - Resumption of Narita–Shanghai (Pudong) Service
After a suspension period, JAL will resume services between Narita and Shanghai Pudong International Airport. The route will operate during the winter schedule window, from October 26, 2025, through March 28, 2026. The reinstatement of this route is especially meaningful, given the vital role Japan-China connectivity plays in business, tourism, and cultural exchange. With travel volumes between the two countries steadily recovering, the resumption underlines JAL’s commitment to rebuilding international networks across Asia.
Deployment of Airbus A350-1000 on Haneda–Paris Route
In a major fleet development, JAL will introduce its latest flagship, the Airbus A350-1000, on the Haneda–Paris Charles de Gaulle route (JL45/JL46) starting November 9, 2025. This state-of-the-art aircraft represents a significant leap forward in passenger comfort and sustainability.
The A350-1000 features:
- Next-generation cabin interiors with specially designed seating across all classes, offering improved ergonomics and privacy.
- Advanced pressure and humidity control systems, designed to minimize jet lag and ensure a more comfortable long-haul experience.
- Fuel-efficient performance, reflecting JAL’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint while maintaining world-class service.
With the deployment of the A350-1000, JAL will operate a total of 12 daily flights across five major routes from Haneda Airport, further cementing its role as a central hub for international travelers to and from Tokyo. The Paris route, in particular, holds strategic importance, connecting Japan to one of Europe’s most popular destinations for both leisure and business.
Enhancements to Domestic Operations
Alongside its international expansions, JAL is also making targeted adjustments to its domestic network, especially to address seasonal travel patterns and the significant influx of inbound tourists during Japan’s winter season.
Increased Services to Hokkaido
Hokkaido remains a highly sought-after destination for winter travelers, especially due to its world-famous ski resorts, hot springs, and winter festivals. To cater to this strong demand:
- From January 6 to February 28, the Tokyo (Haneda)–Sapporo (New Chitose) route will increase from 17 to 18 round trips per day.
- From January 31 to February 28, the Osaka (Itami)–Sapporo (New Chitose) route will expand from 4 to 5 round trips per day.
These additional frequencies ensure greater connectivity to northern Japan during the peak of the winter travel season, supporting both domestic tourism and international visitors eager to experience Hokkaido’s snowy landscapes.
Strengthened Okinawa Connections
JAL has also adjusted services to and from Okinawa, recognizing its role as a year-round leisure destination.
- From October 26 to January 31, the Fukuoka–Okinawa (Naha) route will increase from 6 to 7 round trips per day.
- During the peak holiday period, December 26 to January 4, the Nagoya (Chubu)–Okinawa (Naha) route will grow from 4 to 5 round trips per day.
These enhancements aim to support tourism to Okinawa, which continues to attract travelers for its subtropical climate, rich cultural heritage, and marine leisure opportunities even during winter months.
Seasonal Adjustments at Sapporo (Okadama)
Recognizing the impact of severe winter weather conditions on operations in Hokkaido, JAL will introduce seasonal adjustments for flights at Sapporo (Okadama) Airport. These measures are designed to improve flexibility and responsiveness to irregular operations caused by heavy snowfall and other adverse weather, thereby ensuring greater reliability for travelers.
Commitment to Community, Culture, and Connectivity
Beyond operational enhancements, JAL emphasizes that its winter schedule is aligned with broader corporate goals. The airline reaffirms its dedication to creating both social and economic value through aviation. By expanding route options, introducing cutting-edge aircraft, and reinforcing domestic networks, JAL seeks to strengthen the bonds between people, places, and communities.
Contributions to Regional Development
The adjustments to Hokkaido and Okinawa flights illustrate JAL’s role in supporting regional economies, ensuring steady visitor flows during peak and off-peak periods. Increased accessibility encourages tourism, drives local business, and sustains cultural exchange in regions that rely heavily on travel-related economic activity.
Enhancing Cultural Exchange
The resumption of Shanghai flights and the expansion of Melbourne services highlight JAL’s role as a cultural bridge. These routes not only facilitate leisure and business travel but also contribute to stronger cross-border understanding and collaboration. Paris, as one of the world’s most iconic destinations, further underscores JAL’s mission to connect Japan with global centers of art, fashion, and commerce.
Sustainability and Passenger Comfort
By deploying the Airbus A350-1000, JAL is aligning its fleet modernization strategy with global sustainability goals. The new aircraft offers lower fuel consumption and emissions compared to older models while providing passengers with a more comfortable in-flight experience. This reflects JAL’s long-term vision of combining environmental responsibility with customer satisfaction.
With the 2025 winter schedule, JAL positions itself to capture increasing passenger demand, both domestically and internationally. The enhancements not only strengthen the airline’s competitive position but also reinforce Japan’s role as a global travel hub.
As international travel continues its recovery and domestic tourism remains strong, JAL’s carefully balanced approach—expanding key international routes, deploying next-generation aircraft, and boosting domestic connectivity—underscores its resilience and commitment to excellence.
In summary, the FY2025 Winter Schedule is more than just a timetable; it is a reflection of JAL’s mission to connect people, foster cultural exchange, and support communities across Japan and beyond. Through these initiatives, Japan Airlines remains steadfast in its promise to meet diverse customer needs while driving forward the values of hospitality, innovation, and sustainability that define the JAL Group.