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On March 12, 2025, a Boeing 747-400 operated by Atlas Air departed from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, marking a significant return to its origins. The aircraft, now configured for charter flights, was originally part of All Nippon Airways' fleet in Japan. This particular flight carried the Los Angeles Dodgers to Tokyo for a Major League Baseball series against the Chicago Cubs.
The two-game series, named the Tokyo Series and sponsored by Guggenheim Partners, took place on March 18 and 19 at the Tokyo Dome. This event marked MLB's return to Japan since 2019. Notable players such as Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto participated in these games. The Dodgers emerged victorious in both matches.
Atlas Air's decision to use a Boeing 747-400 for this journey was due to its capacity to accommodate an entire sports team with lie-flat seating necessary for long-haul travel. The aircraft traveled approximately 6,100 miles at an altitude of 32,000 feet.
