Toronto. Photo: Shutterstock The Japanese airline ZIPAIR, which specializes in long-haul low-cost flights and belongs to the Japan Airlines group, announced today (Thursday, November 12, 2026) the expansion of its international route network, with the launch of a new direct route between Narita Airport in Tokyo and Pearson International Airport in Toronto, Canada.
According to the company's announcement, this is a historic move for ZIPAIR, making it the first Japanese low-cost carrier to operate direct flights on this route.
The new route will begin operating on March 2, 2027, with three weekly flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Starting March 29, the company will increase the frequency to four weekly flights, with the addition of a flight on Mondays.
The flights will be operated using Boeing 787 Dreamliners, which are used by the company on its long-haul routes. The aircraft offer two seating options: Standard Class and ZIP Full-Flat Class, which includes seats that fold out into a flat bed.
Toronto will become the 11th destination in ZIPAIR's route network, which continues to expand its international operations and deepen its presence in the North American aviation market.
Toronto is Canada's largest city and one of the country's most important economic and tourist centers. The city serves as a major gateway to Canada and offers connections to a variety of other destinations, including the Niagara Falls region.
The move comes against the backdrop of ZIPAIR's continued expansion, which seeks to offer an alternative to traditional airlines, even on long intercontinental flights.
The company operates a fleet of Boeing 787 aircraft and offers a service model that lets passengers select and purchase additional services as needed.
The opening of the route to Toronto is expected to strengthen air connectivity between Japan and Canada and expand flight options between the two countries, as part of the growing competition in the long-haul flight market.