ZIPAIR is officially returning to Orlando International Airport with additional nonstop flights between Orlando and Tokyo following the overwhelming response to the airline’s inaugural service earlier this year.
According to the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, ZIPAIR will operate three additional open passenger charter flights between Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT) on:
- August 8, 2026
- August 13, 2026
- August 18, 2026
Bookings are expected to open in mid-June.
A Huge Milestone for Orlando
Earlier this year, ZIPAIR made history by operating the first nonstop open passenger charter flights between Florida and the Asia Pacific region. And honestly, the response was clearly stronger than many expected.
The success of those initial February and March flights helped demonstrate what Orlando leaders have been trying to prove for decades: there is real demand for direct service between Central Florida and Japan.
“The excitement surrounding ZIPAIR’s first flights exceeded expectations,” said GOAA CEO Lance Lyttle in the official announcement. “The return of service is an exciting milestone and another sign that Orlando continues to strengthen its position as a truly global gateway.”
Why This Route Matters
For Orlando, this isn’t just about tourism.
Direct Tokyo service has been a long-term goal for more than 30 years, and it represents a major step forward for international connectivity in Central Florida.
Japan remains one of the world’s most important travel markets, and nonstop access makes Orlando significantly more attractive for both leisure and business travelers coming from Asia.
And honestly, for Florida travelers, having a direct option to Tokyo without connecting through another major U.S. hub is a pretty big deal too.
Terminal C Continues Growing Internationally
ZIPAIR operates out of MCO’s newer Terminal C, which continues becoming the airport’s centerpiece for international growth.
International traffic at Orlando International Airport has surged in recent years, with officials reporting approximately 1.4 million more international visitors in 2025 compared to 2023.
As one of the busiest airports in the United States, Orlando has increasingly positioned itself as more than just a domestic tourism airport.
More Growth Could Still Be Coming
While these August flights are currently listed as charter operations, officials continue signaling optimism about eventually establishing regularly scheduled service between Orlando and Tokyo.
And honestly, if these additional flights perform as strongly as the first round did, it feels very possible this route could eventually become something much bigger.
For Orlando travelers, theme park fans heading overseas, and international visitors alike, this feels like another important step in Orlando becoming a much more globally connected destination.
Janine is a theme park and pop culture nerd from an early age. Since 1994, she’s been traversing the theme park world and has enjoyed all things from Halloween events to new ride releases and beyond. When she’s not at a theme park, she’s probably at a concert or doing something fun with her kiddo.