Japan’s top 5-star airline launches direct Tokyo-Istanbul flights

All Nippon Airways (ANA), recognized as Japan’s best five-star airline for 12 consecutive years, marked its inaugural flight to Istanbul Airport with flight NH219 on Wednesday.

The new direct route between Tokyo Haneda and Istanbul Airport will operate three times a week—on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays—using Boeing 787-8 aircraft.

With this launch, ANA becomes the 111th airline to operate at Istanbul Airport.

‘Faster travel to major hubs across Asia and Europe’

Istanbul Airport’s Deputy General Manager for Commerce Server Aydin highlighted the significance of the launch, noting that Türkiye and Japan are celebrating the 100th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2024. Aydin described ANA’s new flights as a key step in strengthening friendship and cooperation between the two nations.

“We are delighted to collaborate with ANA, an airline that prioritizes customer satisfaction and quality,” Aydin said. “These flights will offer passengers more connections, enabling faster and more efficient travel to major hubs across Asia and Europe.”

Aydin added that they aim to increase ANA’s flight frequency to daily operations with larger-capacity aircraft. “By the end of 2024, we will have served 80 million passengers, reaffirming our global significance in aviation. In April, we will initiate triple parallel landing and takeoff operations, further positioning Istanbul Airport as a global transfer hub,” he stated.

ANA President and CEO Shinichi Inoue expressed his pleasure at launching operations in Istanbul, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to expanding its global network.

“We are proud to include Istanbul in our growing global network,” Inoue said. “This milestone not only increases travel opportunities for our passengers but also plays a vital role in deepening ties between Japan and Türkiye. As a bridge between nations, we are committed to fostering stronger connections and enriching cultural exchange.”