Emirates Adds Second Daily Tokyo Narita Flight, Boosting UAE Global Connectivity
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
Emirates will launch a second daily service to Tokyo Narita (NRT) on May 1, 2026, using a retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER, significantly boosting UAE-Japan capacity.
Key Takeaways
- •Emirates starts second daily Dubai-Tokyo Narita flight on May 1, 2026.
- •The expansion increases weekly Japan capacity to over 22,500 seats across three gateways.
- •The new service uses a retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER with a four-class cabin, including Premium Economy.
- •This move strengthens the UAE's position as a critical global air connectivity hub between East and West.
UAE-based airlines are actively reshaping global air connectivity.
This expansion is driven by strong travel demand across key regions. Emirates, the flagship carrier, is leading this growth effort. The airline recently announced a major capacity increase to Japan.
Key Route Details: Dubai to Tokyo Narita
Emirates will introduce a second daily service to Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT). This new flight begins operations on May 1, 2026. The added frequency will increase Emirates’ total weekly capacity to Japan. The airline will now offer more than 22,500 seats weekly across its three Japanese gateways. These gateways include Tokyo Narita, Tokyo Haneda, and Osaka.
New Flight Schedule and Aircraft
The new service is designated as flight EK320/321. Flight EK320 will depart Dubai International Airport (DXB) late at night. It is scheduled to arrive in Tokyo Narita the following afternoon. The return flight, EK321, will leave NRT in the evening. It will arrive in Dubai early the next morning. This timing is crucial for seamless global connections.
Emirates will deploy a retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER on the new route. This aircraft features a four-class configuration. It includes eight First Class Suites and 40 Business Class seats. Notably, the aircraft offers 24 Premium Economy seats. This reflects the growing market demand for a mid-tier cabin product.
Strategic Impact on Global Connectivity
The afternoon arrival in Tokyo benefits passengers seeking onward travel. It supports domestic connections via partner carriers like Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways. The early morning arrival in Dubai is also highly strategic. It allows for seamless onward connections to major hubs. These include destinations across Africa, Europe, and South America.
This move strengthens the UAE’s position as a central hub. The expansion meets the growing demand for air travel between the Middle East and Asia.
- The increased frequency provides greater choice for both business and leisure travelers.
- The retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER ensures a consistent, high-quality passenger experience.
- The additional capacity, including cargo, boosts trade and tourism ties between the UAE and Japan.
Other UAE carriers are also expanding their networks. Etihad Airways is adding new destinations in North America and Europe. This collective growth solidifies the UAE's role in global aviation. It enhances cultural, tourism, and economic ties worldwide.
flying.flights is your source for accurate commercial aviation news and global aviation updates. Get the latest updates on major hubs, regional terminals, and airport operations via the Airports section at flying.flights/airports.

Written by Ujjwal Sukhwani
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience. Covers flight operations, safety regulations, and market trends with expert analysis.
Visit ProfileYou Might Also Like
Discover more aviation news based on similar topics
Canadian Airlines Resume Puerto Vallarta Flights Amid Security Concerns
Canadian carriers resumed flights to Puerto Vallarta after a temporary suspension due to regional violence, though some travelers have altered their plans.
National Aviation Strike Set to Disrupt Italian Air Travel on Feb 26
A 24-hour national aviation strike in Italy on Feb 26 will cause widespread flight cancellations, with ITA Airways grounding 55% of its scheduled service.
Delta Launches First Nonstop JFK-Malta Flights for Summer 2026
Delta Air Lines will launch its first nonstop service from JFK to Malta in June 2026, supported by a new Delta Vacations program for the destination.
Winter Storm Cancels Over 11,000 Flights in U.S. Northeast
A major winter storm in the U.S. Northeast forced airlines to cancel over 11,000 flights, grounding operations at major hubs like Boston and New York.
IndiGo Launches Belagavi-Navi Mumbai Flights from March 29
IndiGo will launch daily flights between Belagavi and Navi Mumbai from March 29, restoring a key regional route previously served by Star Air.
Canadian Airlines Resume Mexico Flights After Regional Violence Subsides
Canadian carriers resume flights to Puerto Vallarta as over 61,000 citizens register with Global Affairs Canada amid regional safety concerns.