Kansai International Airport recently marked its 30th anniversary, celebrating significant growth and success after facing challenges during its early years. Initially referred to as "Osaka's burden" due to low demand, the airport has since experienced a turnaround, becoming a bustling hub driven by the rise of budget airlines and a surge in inbound tourists.
Located in Osaka Bay and established in 1994 as the world's first large-scale offshore airport, Kansai Airport struggled with low passenger traffic and financial strain in its initial stages. However, the airport's fortune changed with the entrance of budget airlines, taking advantage of its strategic location and 24-hour operations to attract low-cost carriers, ultimately becoming a popular choice for travelers.
The airport, now welcoming a diverse array of airlines including budget carriers like Peach Aviation Ltd. and Spring Airlines Co., has seen a significant increase in international passenger traffic, with over 40 percent of flights operated by low-cost airlines. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Kansai Airport has rebounded, recording a record high of 1.67 million inbound passengers in July and setting sights on further expansion to tap into the thriving Asian market. Upcoming developments include the renovation of the airport's first terminal, set to open in time for Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025, signaling a new chapter of growth and modernization for Kansai International Airport.