The first new passenger airline in Japan in several years is moving steadily towards a March start after securing launch support from major carrier All Nippon Airways (ANA).
Star Flyer, based in Kitakyushu in the south of the country, plans to launch services in mid-March after a new airport opens to serve the city. The carrier initially plans to link Kitakyushu and Tokyo’s Haneda airport with high-frequency shuttle services.
ANA says it has signed a co-operation agreement under which it will provide support “in the start-up stage, and also after operations have commenced”. Covered under the agreement are crew training and the use of ANA’s training facilities, seconded pilots, maintenance, sales and purchasing support. Star Flyer is one of several new airlines ANA has agreed to support over the years since deregulation in 1998 led to the launch of several private carriers.
Star Flyer is owned by a large group of corporations and individuals. It has committed to leasing three Airbus A320s from GECAS and the first is due to be delivered in December. The two other aircraft are scheduled to arrive in Japan in January and February.
Star Flyer aims to operate shuttle services every 30 minutes on its single route. It says other destinations may also be served from Kitakyushu in future. The company applied to regulatory authorities in early September for an air transport business licence spelling out plans to operate 12 round-trip flights.
A company executive says the airline has already secured slots at the busy Haneda airport, but more are being sought. “Our business plan is for 12 round-trip services but it is subject to government approval and subject to slots at Haneda,” he says.
ANA rival Japan Airlines has meanwhile acquired a 10% stake in start-up freight carrier Galaxy Airlines. Galaxy, being launched by local company Sagawa Express, aims to launch services in June 2006 and will focus on overnight domestic express services. It plans to operate A300 freighters.
Source: Airline Business
