Japan Air Commuter and Hokkaido Air System Join oneworld Alliance

Japan Airlines regional affiliates, Japan Air Commuter and Hokkaido Air System, are set to join the global airline alliance oneworld as members joining October 25, 2020. This expansion will enhance oneworld's network within Japan, offering passengers greater opportunities to earn and redeem flights across a wider region.

The two airlines jointly operate over 20 domestic destinations in Japan, with more than 90 daily flights. In 2019, they transported nearly 900,000 passengers. Japan Airlines, which holds a majority stake in both carriers, has been a oneworld member since 2007. Other JAL Group affiliates, J-AIR and Japan Transocean Air, are already part of the oneworld alliance.

The integration will allow passengers to access oneworld benefits on an increased number of flights within Japan. The alliance will gain four new Japanese destinations: Kikai (KKX), Okinoerabu (OKE), Tajima (TJH), and Yakushima (KUM), complementing the more than 50 existing airports served by oneworld.

Japan Air Commuter, based in Kagoshima, serves the Kagoshima and Okinawa islands, as well as western Japanese cities. Hokkaido Air System operates routes connecting Hokkaido and Aomori prefectures.

"We are pleased to expand the oneworld footprint in Japan alongside our valued partner Japan Airlines, through the addition of another two of their high-quality affiliates to the alliance," stated oneworld CEO Rob Gurney. "Japan Air Commuter and Hokkaido Air System will provide even greater connectivity in Japan to customers, growing our position in one of the key markets in Asia."