ZIPAIR Announces New Route from Tokyo to the World’s Theme Park Capital

TOKYO— ZIPAIR (ZG), a low-cost airline under Japan Airlines (JL), has announced plans to launch the first nonstop passenger flights between Japan and Florida in early 2026.

This exciting charter service will link Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT) and Orlando International Airport (MCO), fulfilling a long-held desire for direct travel between these regions across the Pacific.

ZIPAIR’s Tokyo to Orlando Itinerary

ZIPAIR will operate four round-trip nonstop flights from Tokyo Narita (NRT) to Orlando International (MCO) on February 23, February 28, March 5, and March 10, 2026.

This route, spanning 7,251 miles, will feature the airline’s Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which boasts its signature “ZIP Full-Flat” seats for a comfortable low-cost travel experience.

Departures will occur in the afternoon from Narita, arriving in Orlando on the same day. Returning flights will leave Orlando in the afternoon, arriving back in Tokyo the following evening. Ticket sales are set to commence in early December 2025 on the ZIPAIR website.

This service is being introduced as charter flights, with backing from local tourism and economic development agencies, to enhance travel, cultural exchange, and business connections between Japan and Central Florida.

ZIPAIR, a subsidiary of Japan Airlines, operates medium and long-haul routes from Narita to ten destinations, combining budget-friendly pricing with premium cabin offerings.

Collaboration with Disney

In partnership with Disney Destinations International, travelers on these flights heading to Walt Disney World Resort can look forward to exclusive experiences.

These special perks include a private Disney character greeting and entry to a reserved viewing area for the EPCOT’s Luminous: The Symphony of Us night show, complete with delightful desserts.

Disney executives view this collaboration as a “dream realized,” emphasizing its potential to make the Florida resort more accessible for visitors from Japan.

A Historic Moment for Orlando

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority states that this new service marks a significant milestone, being the first direct flight from Tokyo to Orlando and establishing the first nonstop connection between Florida and North Asia.

Victoria Jaramillo, Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted the route as a “testament to the economic strength” shared by both areas. ZIPAIR’s President, Shingo Nishida, referred to this development as a “historic achievement,” emphasizing Orlando’s global allure.

Future of ZIPAIR Flights to Orlando

The charter flights will serve as both an experimental initiative and a celebration of collaboration. Aviation and tourism officials plan to gauge demand through this service, which may pave the way for regular, nonstop routes in the future.

These trials, often supported by promotional funding, seek to showcase the market potential to airlines. However, history indicates most charters do not evolve into permanent services unless robust demand supports them.

Given the leisure-centric focus of Tokyo to Orlando travel and the existing number of one-stop options, it remains uncertain whether ZIPAIR or other airlines will expand this route beyond the initial four flights.

Your Guide to Orlando

Orlando attracts millions of tourists each year thanks to its theme parks, sunny climate, and diverse entertainment options. Effective planning enhances the experience, as the city offers much more than thrill rides.

Whether you’re flying in with Delta (DL), American (AA), or Southwest (WN), or driving in, Orlando welcomes well-prepared travelers. This guide details how to reach the city, ideal accommodations, dining options, and attractions beyond the parks.

Discovering Orlando

Known as The City Beautiful, Orlando combines lively attractions with serene natural escapes. The main entry point, Orlando International Airport (MCO), is conveniently located just 15 minutes from downtown, while the smaller Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) is about 45 minutes away, offering select regional flights often at lower costs.

Many U.S. East Coast travelers come via I-75, I-95, or Florida’s Turnpike, while those from further away often choose to fly. Once in the city, most find rental cars useful, though rideshares and hotel shuttles, along with public transport options like the LYNX Bus and I-Ride Trolley, connect numerous attractions.

Orlando’s downtown area is organized around Central Boulevard and Orange Avenue, while International Drive (I-Drive) hosts the main tourist hub with a variety of dining, shopping, and nightlife options.

Ideal Times to Visit

Seasonal shifts affect Orlando’s visitor patterns. Peak times are during summer and late November through December when families flock to the parks. For smaller crowds and more economical rates, consider traveling between January and mid-February or from September to early November.

Spring (March to May) provides an ideal mix of warm temperatures, minimal rainfall, and pleasant evenings. While travel during late summer is viable, hurricane season can pose challenges.

Top Attractions and Theme Parks

Walt Disney World Resort

As the world’s most visited resort complex, it welcomes over 58 million guests annually. Each of its main parks—Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom—provides unique rides, shows, and dining experiences.

Visitors should secure tickets and park reservations in advance. Disney’s Genie+ and Lightning Lane systems streamline the experience, replacing the old FastPass method to minimize wait times.

Universal Orlando Resort

This destination includes Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay, famed for attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. A new park, Epic Universe, is also on the horizon, expanding their offerings.

LEGOLAND Florida

Located about 45 miles from MCO, LEGOLAND features attractions ideal for younger guests, complemented by extensions like Peppa Pig and a Water Park over 150 acres in Winter Haven.

Fun Spot America

This vibrant, family-run amusement park features classic rides, go-karts, and Orlando’s only wooden coaster—an enjoyable, affordable alternative.

Beyond the Thrills

Orlando offers much beyond the major theme parks. Helicopter night tours allow for breathtaking skyline views over ICON Park, Disney, and Universal. The Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari Park brings you close to exotic animals like giraffes and zebras, while The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show provides family-friendly entertainment with endless pizza.

For day trips, consider sites like the Kennedy Space Center (45 minutes east), St. Augustine (two hours north), Clearwater Beach (two hours west), and Crystal River, known for swimming with manatees.

Accommodation Options

Luxury Resorts

• Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World – A five-diamond property perfect for family or romantic getaways.
• Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes – Known for its luxurious spa and commitment to sustainability, nestled in a nature preserve.
• Waldorf Astoria Orlando – An elegant retreat located close to Bonnet Creek, ideal for couples.

Mid-Range and Family Hotels

• Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek – A four-diamond hotel near Disney, equipped with its own lazy river.
• Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort – A retro budget-friendly option with early park admission.
• Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando – A stylish downtown hotel known for its art collection and rooftop pool.

Culinary Highlights

Orlando’s dining scene offers everything from upscale cuisine to beloved local spots.

• Victoria & Albert’s (Disney’s Grand Floridian) – New American fine dining that has earned Michelin stars.
• The Boathouse (Disney Springs) – A waterfront seafood and steak venue featuring live music.
• Café Tu Tu Tango (International Drive) – Creative tapas and live art performances.
• STK Orlando – A modern steakhouse with a vibrant lounge atmosphere.
• Le Café de Paris – French breakfast and coffee in the Dr. Phillips area.
• Christini’s Ristorante Italiano – Known for its authentic northern Italian dishes.
• Hot Dog Heaven – A casual spot for Chicago-style hot dogs, loved by the locals since 1987.

Travel Tips

• Advance bookings for park tickets and dining are essential.
• Pack sunscreen, refillable water bottles, and light rain gear.
• Try to visit during weekdays or off-peak seasons to avoid crowds.
• Utilize hotel shuttles or look for multi-day transport passes.
• Take regular breaks during the day to recharge from the heat and crowds.

Preparation Essentials

Your packing list should reflect the season, including comfortable shoes, a rain jacket, and swimwear. Spring and fall visitors should bring light layers; summer travelers need breathable clothing and sunscreen. Winter tends to be cooler, so mild temperatures in the 70s will require warmer evening attire.

Orlando boasts heated pools year-round at many hotels, so it’s advisable to bring a swimsuit regardless of the season.

Orlando is more than just a theme park haven—it’s an immersive experience filled with top-notch entertainment, dining, and natural beauty. Proper planning ensures you make the most of every moment, whether enjoying thrilling rides or serene lakeside views.