TOKYO— ZIPAIR (ZG), the low-cost subsidiary of Japan Airlines (JL), is set to operate the first-ever nonstop passenger flights between Japan and Florida in early 2026.
The special charter service will connect Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT) and Orlando International Airport (MCO), marking a milestone for both regions that have long sought a direct link across the Pacific.
ZIPAIR Plans Tokyo to Orlando Flights
ZIPAIR will operate four round-trip nonstop flights between Tokyo Narita (NRT) and Orlando International (MCO) on February 23, February 28, March 5, and March 10, 2026.
The 7,251-mile route will be served by the airline’s Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, offering its signature “ZIP Full-Flat” seats—fully reclining beds in an unbundled, low-cost model.
Each flight will depart Narita in the afternoon and arrive in Orlando the same day. Return flights will leave Orlando in the afternoon, landing in Tokyo the following evening. Tickets go on sale in early December 2025 via ZIPAIR’s website.
The flights will be operated as charter services, supported by local tourism and economic development authorities, and are designed to strengthen travel, cultural exchange, and business ties between Japan and Central Florida.
ZIPAIR Tokyo Inc., a subsidiary of Japan Airlines, operates medium and long-haul international routes from Narita to ten destinations, including Seoul, Manila, Bangkok, Singapore, Honolulu, Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose, Houston, and Vancouver. The airline combines low-cost pricing with premium cabin features, offering travelers greater flexibility on international journeys.
Disney and ZIPAIR Team Up
As part of a partnership with Disney Destinations International, travelers on these charter flights who visit Walt Disney World Resort in Florida will receive exclusive experiences.
These include a private Disney character greeting and access to a reserved viewing area for EPCOT’s Luminous: The Symphony of Us night show, complete with desserts.
Disney executives described the partnership as a “dream realized,” highlighting how the new flights will make the Florida resort more accessible for Japanese visitors.
A Historic First for Orlando and Florida
According to the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, this service represents not only the first direct flight between Tokyo and Orlando but also the first nonstop passenger connection between Florida and any destination in North Asia.
Victoria Jaramillo, Chief Commercial Officer of the Authority, noted that the route is a “testament to the economic strength shared between both communities.” ZIPAIR’s President, Shingo Nishida, called it a “historic achievement,” emphasizing Orlando’s global appeal and the airline’s goal to introduce more travelers to its modern, affordable long-haul model.
Will These Flights Become Regular Service?
The upcoming charters are as much an experiment as they are a celebration. Aviation and tourism officials are using these flights to gauge demand and potentially justify regular nonstop service in the future.
Such initiatives, often supported by promotional funding, aim to demonstrate market potential to airlines. However, industry trends show that most charter trials do not transition into scheduled operations unless underlying demand is strong enough to sustain them.
Given the leisure-focused nature of Tokyo–Orlando travel and the abundance of one-stop options already available, it remains uncertain whether ZIPAIR—or any other airline—will expand the route beyond these initial four flights.
Orlando Travel Guide
Orlando draws millions of visitors each year for its theme parks, sunshine, and endless entertainment. Planning ahead is key — the city offers far more than just roller coasters and resorts.
Whether you’re flying in with Delta (DL), American (AA), or Southwest (WN), or arriving by road or rail, Orlando rewards travelers who prepare. This guide covers how to get there, where to stay, what to eat, and what to see beyond the parks.
Exploring the Heart of Orlando
Known as The City Beautiful, Orlando balances high-energy attractions with calm natural escapes. The city’s main gateway, Orlando International Airport (MCO), sits just 15 minutes from downtown and major resorts. The smaller Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), about 45 minutes northwest, serves select regional and charter flights that often come at lower fares.
Travelers from the U.S. East Coast often drive in via I-75, I-95, or Florida’s Turnpike, while visitors from farther away typically fly. Once in the city, most rely on rental cars for convenience, though rideshares, hotel shuttles, and services like LYNX Bus and I-Ride Trolley connect many of the top attractions.
Downtown Orlando runs on a grid around Central Boulevard and Orange Avenue, while International Drive (I-Drive) anchors the city’s main tourist zone — lined with restaurants, shopping, and nightlife.
Best Time to Visit
Orlando’s appeal shifts by season. The busiest times are summer and late November through December, when families flood the parks. For lighter crowds and lower rates, visit between January and mid-February or September and early November.
Spring (March to May) offers the best balance — warm weather, minimal rain, and comfortable evenings. September through November can be pleasant too, but hurricane season sometimes affects travel.
Top Theme Parks and Attractions
Walt Disney World Resort
The world’s most visited resort complex welcomes over 58 million guests a year. Each of its four main parks — Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom — delivers its own universe of rides, shows, and restaurants.
Visitors should purchase tickets and make park reservations early. Disney’s Genie+ and Lightning Lane systems replace the old FastPass and help skip long waits.
Universal Orlando Resort
Home to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay, this complex is famous for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and Marvel-themed rides. The new Epic Universe park is also underway, adding to its already dense lineup.
LEGOLAND Florida (approx. 45 miles from MCO)
Aimed at families with younger children, LEGOLAND and its Peppa Pig and Water Park extensions spread across 150 acres in Winter Haven.
Fun Spot America
An independent, family-run amusement park with classic rides, go-karts, and Orlando’s only wooden coaster — a fun, budget-friendly alternative.
Beyond the Parks
Orlando offers plenty beyond the big names. Helicopter night tours provide a skyline view over ICON Park, Disney, and Universal. The Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari Park brings visitors face-to-face with giraffes, zebras, and bison, while The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show mixes family entertainment with unlimited pizza and drinks.
Day-trip options include the Kennedy Space Center (45 minutes east), St. Augustine (2 hours north), Clearwater Beach (2 hours west), and Crystal River, where visitors can swim with manatees.
Where to Stay
Luxury Resorts
- Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World – Five Diamond; ideal for families or couples wanting resort luxury near Disney.
- Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes – Known for its spa and sustainability, set amid a nature preserve.
- Waldorf Astoria Orlando – A refined retreat close to Bonnet Creek, ideal for romantic getaways.
Mid-Range and Family Hotels
- Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek – Four Diamond; close to Disney with its own lazy river.
- Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort – Retro-themed and budget-friendly with early park admission perks.
- Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando – Downtown boutique stay with a notable art collection and rooftop pool.
Dining Highlights
From fine dining to local favorites, Orlando’s food scene goes far beyond theme park snacks.
- Victoria & Albert’s (Disney’s Grand Floridian) – New American fine dining and a Michelin-star experience.
- The Boathouse (Disney Springs) – Waterfront seafood and steakhouse with live evening music.
- Café Tu Tu Tango (International Drive) – Tapas with a creative twist and live art performances.
- STK Orlando – Modern steakhouse with a lounge atmosphere and live DJ.
- Le Café de Paris – French breakfast and coffee in the Dr. Phillips area.
- Christini’s Ristorante Italiano – Orlando institution known for authentic northern Italian cuisine.
- Hot Dog Heaven – Casual Chicago-style hot dogs and a local favorite since 1987.
Travel Tips
- Book park tickets and dining reservations well in advance.
- Bring sunscreen, refillable water bottles, and light rain gear.
- Visit during weekdays or off-season months to avoid crowds.
- Use hotel shuttles or multi-day passes to save on transport.
- Take breaks during the day — Orlando’s heat and crowds can be draining.
Planning and Preparation
Packing depends on the season, but always include comfortable shoes, a rain jacket, and swimwear. Spring and fall travelers should pack light layers, while summer visitors will need breathable clothing and sunscreen.
Winter visitors can expect mild days in the 70s but cooler nights. Orlando’s hotels and resorts often heat their pools year-round, so packing a swimsuit is still worth it.
Orlando is more than a theme park destination — it’s a full sensory experience with world-class entertainment, dining, and nature. Planning ahead ensures visitors can make the most of every moment, from the rides to the quiet lakeside views.
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