Contrary to the world: in this country you don’t fly abroad

While all over the world, including here in our country, the number of people flying for vacations abroad increases year by year, in Japan there is an opposite trend that worries the tourism industry – the young people in the country, generation Z, do not fly anymore.

The airline’s president, Mitsuko Tottori, expressed concern about the continued decline and warned that if young people no longer fly abroad, it could also significantly affect the country’s future economic growth. Since taking office in 2024, she has repeatedly encouraged young travelers to consider international vacations as part of broader cultural and economic engagement.

The reasons for the ongoing decline include the fact that in Japan it is relatively easy to buy a house, and young people who do so tend to stay in the country rather than fulfilling their fantasies abroad. In addition, the weak Japanese currency, which attracts many tourists to Japan, remains a major factor influencing the locals’ decision to leave the country. Overseas expenses have risen sharply for Japanese travelers, especially in destinations such as the United States and Europe. Hotel prices, food and transportation costs have risen far beyond to pre-pandemic levels.

Following this, the airline launched a number of initiatives and programs aimed at making international travel more accessible for young passengers, such as dedicated miles accumulation programs and campaigns aimed at a young audience.