Breaking New Ground for Florida Tourism: ZIPAIR Launches Direct Flights from Orlando to Tokyo in 2026—Everything You Need to Know About This Historic Route

Published on February 10, 2026

In an exciting development for travelers and aviation enthusiasts, Florida will soon see its first-ever nonstop flight to Asia. Starting in early 2026, Orlando International Airport (MCO) will be the launch point for direct flights to Tokyo, Japan, operated by the low-cost Japanese airline, ZIPAIR. This breakthrough marks a significant milestone for the state, which has never had a direct air link to Asia. Travelers can expect four charter flights in February and March, offering a rare opportunity for tourists and business travelers alike to experience seamless travel between the U.S. and Japan. With the anticipation growing, many are eager to see whether this new connection could lead to more flights in the future, opening the door for further international travel options from Florida to Asia.

The New Route: Orlando to Tokyo

For the first time, Florida will have a dedicated nonstop flight to Tokyo. The ZIPAIR operation will serve four charter flights from Orlando (MCO) to Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT) in early 2026. These flights will offer a direct connection between the two cities, a much-anticipated addition to the international travel network of Florida. The launch comes as a response to increasing demand for more international connections from Orlando, a city known for its tourism-heavy economy.

The ZIPAIR flights are a temporary offering and will operate exclusively as charter flights. This means that while the airline is testing the route, these flights will not immediately become a permanent fixture in the air travel landscape. Charter flights are typically seasonal or limited-schedule, allowing airlines to test the waters before committing to more frequent operations.

What Travelers Can Expect from ZIPAIR

ZIPAIR, known for its affordable international flights, is a low-cost carrier with an emphasis on comfort for budget-conscious travelers. The airline offers unique seating options, including lie-flat seats that are available at lower prices than traditional business class seats. While not technically classified as business class, the airline’s seating offers a taste of premium comfort without the premium price tag.

The four round-trip flights will operate on the following dates:

• February 23, 2026
• February 28, 2026
• March 5, 2026
• March 10, 2026

These flights will likely be scheduled to depart Tokyo in the afternoon, arriving in Orlando in the afternoon as well. The return journey from Orlando will depart in the afternoon, arriving in Tokyo in the evening, maintaining a schedule that suits international travel patterns.

Uncertainty Around Flight Times and Pricing

While the exact flight durations are yet to be confirmed, it is expected that the travel time between Orlando and Tokyo will be around 12.5 hours in one direction and possibly a bit longer for the return leg. This will be consistent with other flights of similar distance, such as Delta’s route from Atlanta to Tokyo.

As for pricing, ZIPAIR has not yet revealed the exact costs for these flights. However, based on the airline’s standard offerings, travelers can expect relatively affordable fares, with round-trip tickets for similar routes available for a few hundred dollars. Premium cabin options like the lie-flat seats might be priced at under $1,000 one-way, but for now, the prices remain a mystery until the flights go on sale in December 2025.

Since these are charter flights, it is unlikely that travelers will be able to book tickets using points or miles. Those looking to book will need to rely on cash fares, so it may be worth considering credit card options with travel rewards to get the best value.

Why This Matters for Travelers to Japan

For years, Florida residents and tourists have had to make connections in other U.S. cities, such as New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco, in order to reach Asia. The addition of a direct flight to Tokyo will be a game-changer for Orlando’s tourism industry. Japan is an incredibly popular destination for Florida travelers, whether for leisure, business, or cultural exploration. The direct flight will not only save time but also provide a unique opportunity to experience Japan without the hassle of layovers and extended travel times.

Additionally, ZIPAIR’s low-cost approach will make Japan more accessible to a broader range of travelers. Whether it’s for the cherry blossom season, exploring Tokyo’s vibrant culture, or indulging in Japanese cuisine, travelers will now have an easier and more affordable way to explore this fascinating country.

Travel Tips for Orlando to Tokyo Flight

As ZIPAIR gears up for this exciting new route, travelers can make the most of their journey by planning ahead and considering a few key tips:

1. Book Early for the Best Deals: Charter flights can sometimes offer attractive prices, but they tend to fill up quickly. Booking early will increase your chances of securing a seat at a lower price.
2. Prepare for Long-Haul Flights: The flight to Tokyo will take several hours, so it’s essential to prepare for a long journey. Pack essentials like noise-canceling headphones, snacks, and a neck pillow to make the flight as comfortable as possible.
3. Check for Travel Deals and Promotions: ZIPAIR occasionally offers promotions on flights to and from Japan. Keep an eye on deals in the months leading up to your travel date, especially in December when these flights go on sale.
4. Visa Requirements: If you’re traveling to Japan for tourism, ensure you understand the visa requirements for your nationality. Most travelers can enter Japan without a visa for short stays, but it’s important to double-check your eligibility.
5. Stay Informed on Flight Changes: Given that these are charter flights, be sure to regularly check for any updates regarding flight times and availability to avoid any last-minute surprises.

What This Means for Florida’s Future International Connections

The new route between Orlando and Tokyo is just the beginning of what could be a transformative shift in Florida’s air travel landscape. If the route proves to be successful, it could open the door for future nonstop flights from Florida to other parts of Asia, such as South Korea, China, or Singapore. This would not only benefit tourists but also business travelers and expats who frequently travel between the U.S. and Asia.

For now, all eyes are on this inaugural flight in 2026, eagerly awaiting to see whether this partnership between ZIPAIR and Orlando International Airport can pave the way for more international connections from Florida.

Conclusion

Florida’s air travel scene is about to change with the introduction of direct flights from Orlando to Tokyo. ZIPAIR’s charter flights will provide a much-needed connection to Asia, bringing new travel opportunities to Florida’s residents and visitors. Whether this service will grow into a more permanent fixture remains to be seen, but the future of international travel in Florida looks brighter than ever.