Understanding Tokyo’s Air Travel Infrastructure
Tokyo is an important hub for international air travel, connecting Japan with major cities around the world. As a result, the city has a well-developed air transportation infrastructure with several airports catering to different types of flights. In this article, we will explore the number of airports in Tokyo, their locations, and their importance to the city’s economy and tourism industries.
How Many Airports are in Tokyo Exactly?
As of 2021, there are four airports in the Tokyo metropolitan area: Narita International Airport, Haneda Airport, Ibaraki Airport, and Tokyo International Airport (also known as Haneda Airport). Narita and Haneda are the two main international airports, while Ibaraki and Tokyo International serve domestic flights and some international routes.
The Main International Gateway: Narita International Airport
Located in Chiba prefecture, Narita International Airport is the primary gateway for international travelers visiting Tokyo. The airport handles more than 40 million passengers annually and serves over 120 destinations worldwide. It has two passenger terminals, and a third is under construction to accommodate more passengers.
The Other International Airport: Haneda Airport
Haneda Airport is located in Ota, Tokyo, and is the closest airport to the city center. It mainly serves domestic flights, but also has international routes to several Asian cities and Honolulu. Haneda currently has three terminals and handles over 87 million passengers annually.
Tokyo’s Third Airport: Ibaraki Airport
Ibaraki Airport is located in the city of Omitama in Ibaraki prefecture, about 85 kilometers northeast of Tokyo. It mainly serves domestic flights, but also has a few international routes. The airport has one terminal and handled over 100,000 passengers in 2019.
Domestic Flights: Tokyo International Airport (Haneda)
Tokyo International Airport, also known as Haneda Airport, is the busiest airport in Japan and mainly serves domestic flights. It has three terminals and handles over 87 million passengers annually. The airport is also a hub for several domestic airlines and has flights to several international destinations.
Other Airports in the Surrounding Area
Apart from the four airports in Tokyo, there are several other airports in the surrounding area that cater to different types of flights. These include Chofu Airport, which serves general aviation and business flights, and Oshima Airport, which serves the island of Oshima in the Izu Islands.
Military Airports in Tokyo: Yokota Air Base
Yokota Air Base is a United States Air Force base located in the city of Fussa, Tokyo. It serves as a hub for US military operations in the Asia-Pacific region and also supports Japanese military operations. The base has a single runway and handles both military and civilian flights.
A Look at Tokyo’s Cargo and Private Airports
In addition to passenger airports, Tokyo also has several cargo and private airports that cater to specific needs. These include Narita Cargo Terminal, which handles cargo operations for Narita International Airport, and Tokyo Heliport, which serves helicopter flights.
Changes in Tokyo’s Air Travel Infrastructure Over Time
Tokyo’s air travel infrastructure has undergone significant changes over the years, with new airports being built and existing ones expanding to accommodate growing demand. For example, Haneda Airport opened a new terminal in 2020 to handle additional passengers, and Narita International Airport is currently building a third terminal for the same reason.
Conclusion: Tokyo’s Airports and Their Importance to the City
The number of airports in Tokyo and their strategic locations play a crucial role in the city’s economy and tourism industries. They provide convenient access for international and domestic travelers, support cargo operations, and serve as hubs for military and private flights. As Tokyo continues to grow as a global city, its air travel infrastructure will continue to evolve to meet the needs of its residents and visitors.
References and Further Reading
- "Narita International Airport." Narita Airport. Accessed 7 June 2021. https://www.narita-airport.jp/en/.
- "Haneda Airport." Tokyo International Air Terminal Corporation. Accessed 7 June 2021. https://www.tokyo-airport-bldg.co.jp/en/.
- "Ibaraki Airport." Ibaraki Airport Authority. Accessed 7 June 2021. https://www.ibaraki-airport.jp/en/.
- "Yokota Air Base." United States Air Force. Accessed 7 June 2021. .
- "Chofu Airport." Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Accessed 7 June 2021. .
- "Oshima Airport." Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Accessed 7 June 2021. .
