ZIPAIR is expanding its North American network by launching direct flights from Tokyo to Houston. Beginning March 4, 2025, this Japanese low-cost carrier will introduce its longest route, covering 6,643 miles to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).

Moreover, the airline will operate four weekly flights from its base at Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT). Specifically, flights will depart on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The schedule is as follows:

• Flight ZG16 departs NRT at 10:00, arriving at IAH at 06:45.
• Flight ZG15 leaves IAH at 08:45, landing at NRT at 13:50 the next day.

ZIPAIR will utilize its Boeing 787-8 aircraft for this route, which accommodates 290 passengers—18 in business class and 272 in economy. Currently, ZIPAIR operates a fleet of eight Boeing 787-8s, averaging 9.7 years old, while two more are on order. Travelers can book flights now, with promotional fares starting at just $333 each way, including taxes and fees.

Additionally, this new service marks ZIPAIR’s fifth destination in the U.S. and complements its existing routes to San Francisco, San Jose (seasonal), Los Angeles, and Honolulu. Furthermore, the airline also provides services to Vancouver International Airport (YVR). As ZIPAIR broadens its reach, it faces considerable competition on the Tokyo-Houston route. All Nippon Airways and United Airlines currently operate flights on this route, adding to the competitive landscape.

Notably, ZIPAIR’s journey began in June 2020 as a cargo carrier due to Japan’s stringent COVID-19 travel restrictions. The airline transitioned to passenger services in October 2020, initially focusing on popular Asian destinations. Subsequently, it launched its first U.S. service to Honolulu and added Los Angeles to its transpacific routes in December 2021. As part of its expansion, ZIPAIR introduced flights to Canada, specifically Vancouver, in March 2024.

Thus, with this expansion into Houston, ZIPAIR continues to enhance its international presence while offering affordable travel options across the Pacific.

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