All Nippon Airways (ANA), a key player in the Japanese aviation sector and the sole Japanese member of the Star Alliance, operates iconic Airbus A380 flights between Tokyo and Honolulu. The popularity of these flights reflects Japan’s strong affinity for Hawaii, a destination served by multiple airlines including Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, Japan Airlines, and Zipair Tokyo.
ANA has been operating this route since 1998 and marked its 26th anniversary in October 2024. The airline utilizes three Airbus A380s, known as Flying Honu, which are uniquely painted to celebrate this connection. Toshio Nomura, ANA’s Executive Vice President for The Americas, highlighted the airline’s dedication: “ANA deeply values the privilege of furthering an enduring connection between Japan and Hawaii. Air travel catalyzes uniting individuals and fostering cultural exchange. ANA remains resolutely committed to building a robust partnership with Hawaii, ensuring mutual growth and prosperity for the next 25 years and beyond.”
The A380s accommodate up to 520 passengers across four cabin classes: first class (eight seats), business class (56 seats), premium economy (73 seats), and economy class (383 seats). Each aircraft is named—JA381A as Lani—and features liveries symbolizing aspects of Hawaiian culture.
From January, ANA will offer ten weekly flights on this route with schedules accommodating various passenger needs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, ANA adapted by offering sightseeing flights using surplus aircraft.
ANA was founded 72 years ago as ‘Japan Helicopter and Aeroplane’ and now employs over 12,800 staff members with a fleet of 224 aircraft serving numerous destinations worldwide. Its main hubs are located at Tokyo Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND).
