ANA Holdings to Expand International Flights by 30% by 2030

A strategic shift by Japan’s leading airline group

ANA Holdings, Japan’s largest airline group, plans to increase international passenger flights by 30% by fiscal 2030. The expansion reflects a strong recovery in global air travel and Japan’s renewed ambition to position itself as a major international tourism hub in the post-pandemic era.

The strategy is designed to capture rising demand from North America and Asia while supporting Japan’s broader economic objective of rebuilding inbound tourism at scale. ANA views international connectivity as a long-term growth pillar rather than a cyclical rebound.

Narita’s role in global network expansion

The expansion will be centred on Narita International Airport, which ANA is positioning as a core global gateway. Increased flight frequencies and additional long-haul routes are expected to strengthen Japan’s connectivity with major international cities, particularly in the United States and Asia.

By improving network density, ANA aims to enhance scheduling flexibility, increase seat availability and maintain pricing competitiveness in an increasingly crowded international aviation market.

Low-cost carriers support volume growth

Alongside its full-service operations, ANA is expanding its low-cost subsidiary Peach Aviation. Growth through Kansai International Airport is intended to attract price-sensitive travellers and support short- and medium-haul traffic from across Asia.

This dual-brand strategy allows ANA Holdings to address both premium and mass-market demand, increasing overall passenger throughput while maintaining operational efficiency.

Tourism targets drive aviation strategy

ANA’s expansion aligns closely with Japan’s national tourism targets. After surpassing 40 million international visitors in 2025, the government aims to attract 60 million annual visitors by 2030. Increased flight capacity is a prerequisite for achieving this goal.

Greater air connectivity lowers entry barriers for international travellers and supports the decentralisation of tourism beyond Japan’s major cities, encouraging regional economic development.

Hospitality sector prepares for sustained demand

The anticipated growth in inbound travel is already reshaping investment plans across Japan’s hospitality industry. Global hotel operators are accelerating new openings, while traditional ryokan operators are upgrading facilities to meet international expectations without sacrificing cultural identity.

Improved air access is expected to benefit regional markets such as Hokkaido, Okinawa and Fukuoka, where hotel demand is becoming more diversified and less seasonal.

Spillover effects across services and regions

Beyond accommodation, increased international flights are expected to stimulate Japan’s restaurant, retail and entertainment sectors. Tourists are increasingly exploring secondary cities and rural regions, driving demand for local experiences and regional brands.

ANA’s aviation expansion therefore delivers a broader multiplier effect across Japan’s service economy, reinforcing tourism as a key contributor to national growth.

Long-term outlook for Japan’s aviation market

ANA’s investment in fleet expansion and international routes signals confidence in long-term passenger growth. Modern aircraft, improved efficiency and a diversified network are central to maintaining competitiveness as regional aviation capacity continues to expand.

As International Investment experts report, ANA’s strategy underscores aviation’s role as a foundational growth engine for Japan. By scaling international connectivity, the airline group is helping to anchor the next phase of expansion for tourism, hospitality and regional development across the country.