Air BC

Skymark Airlines is a standout representative of Japanese civil aviation that has successfully occupied the niche between budget low-cost carriers and major premium airlines. The company offers travelers an excellent opportunity to explore the Land of the Rising Sun in comfort, maintaining a balance between affordable prices and high-quality service. Thanks to its legendary Japanese punctuality and attention to detail, Skymark has become a reliable choice for those who want to see all the contrasts of Japan: from the business districts of the capital to the tropical beaches of the southern islands.

History and Positioning

Skymark Airlines was founded in 1996 and became one of Japan's first independent airlines, challenging the long-standing monopoly of major national carriers. The company's main mission is to make air travel accessible to a wide range of people without sacrificing safety or basic comfort. Skymark positions itself as a quality alternative: here, passengers often enjoy more legroom and included baggage, which favorably distinguishes them from the strict conditions of typical low-cost carriers.

Fleet and Service Features

The company's fleet consists of reliable and modern Boeing 737-800 liners. One of the carrier's most recognizable features is its collaboration with the Pokémon brand. Special "Pikachu Jets" with bright livery and themed interior designs delight both children and adult tourists. On board, passengers are often offered signature sweets (such as KitKat chocolate in unique packaging), adding a pleasant local flavor to the trip.

Flight Geography

Skymark's route network covers key regions of the country. From its base hub in Tokyo, planes regularly depart for Fukuoka — an important cultural center on Kyushu Island, and to snowy Sapporo in the north. The airline also actively utilizes Kobe Airport, serving the Osaka region, connecting it with popular resort destinations such as sunny Okinawa. The developed network allows tourists to conveniently combine visits to metropolises with nature retreats.

Safety and Punctuality

As is customary in Japanese aviation, flight safety is an absolute priority for Skymark Airlines. The company strictly follows regulations for maintenance and pilot training. Furthermore, Skymark has repeatedly been recognized as one of the most punctual airlines in Japan. The high on-time performance rate makes it an excellent choice for tourists with a tight travel schedule where every minute counts.

To resolve any travel-related questions, Skymark Airlines offers a convenient support system via its official website or call center. The carrier focuses on modern digital services, so most operations, including changing bookings, can be performed online without the need to visit an office.

Official Website

The main source of information and platform for booking management: www.skymark.co.jp (English version available).

Contact Details

• Support and Reservations (for calls from overseas): +81-50-3786-0283 (open daily from 8:00 to 20:30 Japan time).
• Support (within Japan): 0570-039-283 (Navi Dial).
• Email: There is no direct email address for passengers; the company recommends using the feedback form on the website.
• Mobile App: The airline does not release a separate app for iOS/Android; instead, it suggests using the optimized mobile version of the website.

Social Media

You can follow news, promotions, and flight status on official pages:

• Facebook
• X (Twitter)
• Instagram
• YouTube

Airport Offices and Counters

If you require personal consultation at the airport, you can visit Skymark check-in counters at major hubs:

• Tokyo (Haneda): Terminal 1, Departures Floor. The company's headquarters are also located here.
• Osaka (Kobe): Kobe Airport (UKB) — the airline's main hub in the Kansai region.
• Sapporo (New Chitose): Domestic Terminal.
• Fukuoka: Domestic Terminal.
• Okinawa (Naha): 3rd Floor, Check-in Zone.
• Nagoya (Chubu): Terminal 1.

Important Information

Please note that the support service does not operate 24/7 (hours of operation: 08:00 – 20:30 JST). Contact details and office schedules may change, so it is recommended to check current information on the airline's official website before your trip.

Baggage Rules

One of Skymark Airlines' main advantages over many competitors is its generous baggage policy. Unlike budget low-cost carriers where you often have to pay extra for every kilogram, Skymark includes checked baggage in most of its fares. This makes the airline an ideal choice for long trips across Japan when you want to bring home souvenirs or need to carry equipment for outdoor activities.

Carry-on Baggage: Essentials with You

Every passenger is entitled to bring carry-on baggage on board. The rules here are quite standard but come with a pleasant weight bonus, distinguishing the carrier from other local airlines:

• Quantity: 1 piece of carry-on luggage (e.g., a small suitcase) plus 1 personal item (handbag, briefcase, laptop bag, or shopping bag) is allowed.
• Weight: The total weight of the two items must not exceed 10 kg. This is more than the standard 7 kg offered by many other companies, allowing you to pack more freely.
• Dimensions: The size of the main bag must not exceed 55×40×25 cm (total linear dimensions not exceeding 115 cm).

Checked Baggage: Freedom to Travel

A free baggage allowance is provided for all Skymark Airlines passengers (excluding infants without a seat). This is particularly relevant if you are flying for extensive shopping in Tokyo or plan to transport bulky items.

• Free Allowance: Up to 20 kg per passenger.
• Dimensions: The maximum dimensions for a single piece of baggage are 50 × 60 × 120 cm. Please adhere strictly to these parameters rather than the total sum of dimensions to ensure your suitcase fits into the cargo hold.
• Number of Pieces: There is no limit on the number of bags, as long as you stay within the total weight limit (20 kg).

Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments

Japan is famous for its variety of active leisure options, and the airline supports traveling athletes. You can transport sports equipment within the free allowance (20 kg).

• Skis and Snowboards: On flights to snowy Sapporo, this is the most popular cargo. Ski equipment is accepted for carriage but requires secure packaging in cases.
• Diving and Surfing Gear: Relevant for routes to southern islands such as Miyako or Amami. Long items (e.g., surfboards or skis) up to 280 cm long are accepted for carriage, despite standard luggage dimension restrictions.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be taken into the cabin (within carry-on dimensions). Large instruments must be checked in a hard case, after signing a limited liability release for fragile items.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

Safety rules in Japan are strictly enforced. Before departure, especially if your journey takes you through major transport hubs like Osaka or Fukuoka, carefully check the contents of your bags:

• Lithium Batteries and Power Banks: Strictly prohibited in checked baggage! They can only be carried in carry-on luggage.
• Lighters: Only one lighter per person is allowed on your person (in a pocket). Checking them in baggage is prohibited.
• Liquids: Rules on domestic flights are more lenient than international ones. You may bring drinks on board (e.g., an open bottle of tea), but they will be checked with a special detector at security.

Packing Tips

To ensure check-in goes quickly and comfortably, we recommend weighing your suitcases at home or at the hotel. Skymark has a convenient rule for those traveling together: if you are flying as a family or a group of friends, your baggage weight can be pooled. This means if one passenger's suitcase weighs 15 kg and another's weighs 25 kg (totaling 40 kg for two), you won't have to pay for excess weight as you are within the combined allowance. Always carry valuables, documents, and fragile electronics in the cabin.

Skymark Airlines understands that pets are part of the family and strives to make their journey as safe as possible. The airline offers a "Pet On Board" service (cargo hold only), ensuring gentle care for animals throughout the flight. To ensure the flight goes smoothly, it is important to review the rules, prepare a crate, and obtain necessary veterinary documents in advance.

In the Cabin (Carry-on)

Important to know: Skymark Airlines' rules differ from many other carriers. For the safety and comfort of all passengers, the transport of standard household pets (cats, dogs, birds) in the aircraft cabin is not permitted.

• Permitted Animals: Only officially registered guide dogs accompanying passengers with disabilities.
• Size and Weight: There are no weight or size restrictions for guide dogs; they are accommodated at the owner's feet free of charge.
• Restrictions: Emotional support animals (without guide dog status) are not accepted for carriage in the cabin.
• Limit per Passenger: Not applicable for standard pets.

In the Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

This is the primary method of transporting pets on Skymark flights. Animals travel in a special air-conditioned section of the cargo hold, where pressure and temperature are maintained close to cabin levels.

• Container Requirements: The crate must be rigid (plastic or metal), durable, and have a secure lock. Soft carrier bags are not permitted. The airline provides its own rental crates in sizes S, M, and L at the check-in counter.
• Weight and Size Limits: The maximum weight of the animal together with the crate must not exceed 32 kg. The maximum crate size is 51×69×48 cm (Size L).
• Temperature Restrictions: The cargo hold is air-conditioned, but temperature may vary during loading and unloading outdoors. Be careful when planning flights to hot regions like Okinawa, or cold ones like Sapporo, during peak seasons.
• Required Documents: A signed "Consent and Release form," which can be downloaded from the website or filled out at the airport.

As Cargo (For Large Animals)

If your pet is very large or its weight combined with the crate exceeds 32 kg, the standard baggage check-in procedure will not apply.

• When this option is required: For giant dog breeds or if the required crate size exceeds 51×69×48 cm.
• Special Requirements: Transport is arranged via the Air Cargo terminal.
• Booking Procedure: You must contact Skymark's cargo department or a specialized shipping agent in advance, as conditions and rates differ from passenger services.

Necessary Documents

For domestic flights within Japan, requirements are minimal, but they are mandatory for boarding.

• Letter of Consent: A mandatory document confirming your agreement to the terms of carriage and liability.
• Veterinary Certificates: A health certificate is usually not required for domestic flights, but the animal must appear visually healthy.
• Vaccination Certificate: It is recommended to carry a valid rabies vaccination record (especially for dogs).
• International Documents: If your flight is part of an international itinerary, export/import quarantine certificates will be required.

Service Costs

Skymark rates are fixed and charged per crate (one animal) per flight segment.

• Cabin Transport: Free (only for guide dogs).
• Cargo Hold Transport: Approximately 5,000 Yen per crate. Payment is made at the check-in counter at the airport.
• Crate Rental: Included in the transport service fee (subject to availability of the required size).

Preparation Tips

To reduce stress for your four-legged friend, start preparing in advance.

• Carrier Requirements: Accustom the animal to the crate several weeks before the flight. The bottom should be lined with absorbent material.
• Feeding: Do not feed the pet less than 2–4 hours before departure to avoid motion sickness, but be sure to provide water.
• Reducing Stress: Place a favorite toy or an item with the owner's scent in the crate (if not prohibited by security rules).
• Arrival Time: Arrive at the airport (e.g., in Tokyo or Osaka) at least 60 minutes before departure to complete all paperwork.

Restrictions

The airline reserves the right to refuse carriage in certain cases.

• Prohibited Breeds (Brachycephalic): Due to the risk of respiratory problems at altitude, the transport of snub-nosed dogs (Pugs, French Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, etc.) is prohibited (usually year-round or during the summer period).
• Prohibited Animals: Pregnant females, puppies and kittens younger than 8 weeks, as well as sick animals or animals with a strong offensive odor.
• Exceptions: Breed restrictions do not apply to guide dogs if they are traveling in the cabin.

Important: Space for animals in the cargo hold is limited. We strongly recommend booking a spot for your pet in advance or contacting the Skymark Airlines support center immediately after purchasing your ticket.

Loyalty Program and Bonuses

Unlike major network carriers, Skymark Airlines adheres to a unique business model and currently does not have its own mileage accumulation program (analogous to Miles & More or Aeroflot Bonus). The company deliberately opted out of a complex mileage system in favor of maximally transparent and affordable fares for all categories of passengers. Instead of deferred bonuses, travelers receive benefits "here and now" in the form of low ticket prices.

Membership Levels

Since the airline lacks its own mileage program, classic elite levels with statuses are not provided. Skymark's policy is built on the principle of equality:

• Single Standard: All passengers, regardless of flight frequency, receive the same high level of service, including free baggage allowance and drinks on board.
• Accessibility of Privileges: Services that are available only to "Gold" or "Platinum" cardholders in other airlines (such as selecting a seat with extra legroom) can be purchased here for a small fee or received as part of a standard fare.

How to Earn Miles or Points

It is impossible to earn miles in any existing loyalty program on Skymark Airlines flights. This applies to both its own (non-existent) program and partner airline programs. Flights with Skymark do not count towards status upgrades in alliances.

• Flights: No mileage accrual for flights.
• Special Fares: Instead of accumulating points, the company offers "Imatoku" and "Tasutoku" discount systems, allowing significant savings when booking early (up to 70% off the base fare).

How to Spend Miles (Partnership with Delta Air Lines)

Although you cannot earn miles on Skymark flights, there is an important option for Delta SkyMiles members residing in Japan. Thanks to a partnership agreement, miles accumulated in the Delta program can be exchanged for Skymark award tickets.

• Free Tickets: Delta SkyMiles members can issue an award ticket for domestic Skymark flights (for example, from Tokyo to Sapporo or to Okinawa).
• Conditions: This option is available primarily for residents of Japan and holders of co-branded Delta cards in the region.
• Booking: Such tickets are issued through Delta Air Lines support, not directly through the Skymark website.

Alliance Participation

Skymark Airlines is an independent carrier and is not a member of any global aviation alliances (Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld). This allows the company to maintain a flexible pricing policy and not depend on the corporate standards of large unions.

How to Become a Customer

To use the airline's services, joining clubs or registering in programs is not required. The process is simplified to the maximum:

• Simply book a ticket on the official website or through an aggregator.
• To receive the maximum discount, it is recommended to subscribe to the company's email newsletter to be the first to know about sales and the opening of sales for early booking fares.

Skymark Airlines adheres to the concept of a "hybrid carrier," offering passengers the simplicity and affordability typical of budget airlines, but with a level of comfort that significantly exceeds low-cost carriers. On board, you won't find complex multi-class cabins with dividers; however, the company has thought out the details so that the flight is pleasant for every traveler, whether it's a short flight to Ibaraki or a long journey to the southern islands.

Service Classes: Economy and Forward Seat

All of the airline's aircraft feature a single-class layout but with options to enhance comfort. The foundation is the standard Economy Class, which is pleasantly surprising in its spaciousness. Thanks to the absence of bulky dividers and a thoughtful design, the cabin feels airy and bright.

For those who value extra convenience, the "Forward Seat" service is available. These are seats in the front row of the cabin, which can be booked for a small additional fee (about 1000 Yen). Benefits of this fare include:

• Significantly increased legroom (seat pitch is 15-20 cm greater than standard).
• Priority boarding.
• Priority baggage claim upon arrival.
• One complimentary beverage from the paid menu.

Seat Configuration and Comfort

The Skymark fleet consists of reliable Boeing 737-800 liners. Seats in the cabin are arranged in a 3-3 layout. The airline collaborates with the renowned manufacturer RECARO, equipping its planes with modern slim seats featuring beige or dark blue leather upholstery. The seat pitch is about 79 cm (31 inches), which is an excellent figure for domestic flights and allows passengers of average height to feel free even during a three-hour flight, for example, from Tokyo to Miyako.

On many new aircraft, AC power outlets are installed under each seat, allowing you to charge laptops and smartphones during the flight. This is particularly convenient for business travelers flying to Fukuoka or Kagoshima.

Food and Beverages

One of the hallmarks of Skymark's service is its partnership with Nestlé. On most flights, passengers are offered complimentary signature KitKat chocolates in unique packaging, the design of which often changes depending on the season or the aircraft theme.

The policy regarding drinks depends on the route:

• Complimentary Drinks: Hot coffee and occasionally apple juice are offered free of charge on most flights.
• Paid Menu: Additionally, you can purchase soft drinks (cola, tea, juices), as well as other beverages and light snacks at very democratic prices (usually from 100 to 300 Yen).

Entertainment and Connectivity

Unlike major mainline carriers, Skymark aircraft are generally not equipped with individual multimedia screens or Wi-Fi systems. The airline focuses on live interaction and views from the window.

To avoid boredom en route, we recommend downloading movies or books to your gadgets in advance. In the seat pocket, you will find an in-flight magazine with interesting articles about travel in Japan and a route map. If you are lucky enough to fly on a themed "Pikachu Jet," the interior itself will be entertainment: from headrests featuring Pokémon to special crew announcements.

Special Services

Japanese hospitality, or "Omotenashi," is evident in the attention given to special categories of passengers:

• For passengers with disabilities: Staff provide full support during boarding and disembarking. Seats with movable armrests (except for emergency exit rows) facilitate easy transfer.
• For families with children: There are diaper changing tables in the lavatories. The crew often gives young travelers coloring books or small souvenirs.
• Pregnant women: Priority boarding and assistance with stowing carry-on luggage are provided.

If you are sending a child alone (aged 6–11), the "Skymark Kids" service applies. Airline staff will meet the young passenger at the departure airport (e.g., in busy Nagoya), escort them on board, look after them during the flight, and hand them over to the meeting party at the destination, whether it be Nagasaki or Sendai.

Skymark Airlines' route network covers key regions of Japan, providing convenient connections between major metropolises and popular tourist destinations. The airline's main hub is Tokyo (Haneda Airport), from where the majority of regular flights connect the capital with the north and south of the country.

Best Time to Book and Save

Although Skymark Airlines positions itself as an affordable airline, ticket prices can vary depending on the season and flight load. To catch the best deals, we recommend planning your trip in advance. Pay attention to special "Imatoku" fares (purchased 1 or 3 days before departure) and "Tasutoku" (booked 7 or more days in advance). The earlier you book your ticket, the more significant the discount, which sometimes reaches 70% of the base price. This is especially relevant for popular routes, for example, from the capital to Sapporo or to sunny Okinawa during the holiday season.

Online Check-in and Airport Features

Skymark strives to simplify pre-flight formalities, but the procedure may differ slightly from what you are used to with other companies. The main focus is on automatic Self-Service Check-in Machines at the airport. You simply scan the QR code from your booking confirmation to receive your boarding pass. This takes just a couple of minutes and allows you to avoid queues at counters. We recommend arriving at the airport, whether it's busy Tokyo or regional Ibaraki, at least 60 minutes before departure, especially if you have checked baggage.

Seat Selection Secrets: Hunting for Views

Seat selection on Skymark flights is usually free with standard bookings, which is a big plus. If you are flying in clear weather, don't miss the chance to enjoy the views:

• View of Mt. Fuji: When departing from Haneda Airport to the west (towards cities like Fukuoka, Osaka, or Kagoshima), Mt. Fuji is usually visible on the right side of the aircraft (seats with letter K). If you are returning to the capital, choose seats on the left (letter A).
• Comfort for Pennies: If legroom is important to you, try purchasing the "Forward Seat" service right at the check-in counter on the day of departure. For a small fee, you get front-row seats, priority exit, and a complimentary drink.

Mobile Services

It is important to remember that Skymark Airlines does not have a full-fledged mobile app for smartphones available in international app stores. All operations are best performed via the mobile version of the official website. It is perfectly optimized and allows you to manage bookings, check flight status, and select seats. We advise saving your e-ticket or taking a screenshot of the QR code on your phone in advance so as not to depend on internet quality in the terminal.

Insurance and Safety

Japan is famous for safety, and Skymark for punctuality. However, summer and early autumn are typhoon seasons, which can disrupt schedules, especially on southern routes like the Amami or Miyako islands. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers flight delays or cancellations. This will save your nerves and money in case of bad weather.

Birth of the "Third Wing"

The history of Skymark Airlines began in November 1996, during a period of significant change in Japanese aviation. Until that moment, the sky over the country was effectively shared by two giants — JAL and ANA. The creation of Skymark was a response to the deregulation policy of the industry: the company was founded with the ambitious goal of breaking the duopoly and offering affordable flights to the Japanese people. The first flight took place in September 1998, connecting Tokyo (Haneda) and Fukuoka. This event caused a real stir, as tickets for the new carrier cost half as much as those of competitors.

Formation and Strategy Shift

In the early 2000s, the airline experimented with its fleet and routes, using wide-body Boeing 767s. However, to increase efficiency and reduce costs, management decided to unify the fleet. Gradually, Skymark switched to using exclusively narrow-body Boeing 737-800s. An important milestone was the development of a base at Kobe Airport in 2006, which allowed the airline to establish a foothold in the Kansai region and provide convenient access to the city of Osaka. This decision turned the carrier into a key player on domestic routes.

Ambitions and Overcoming Difficulties

In the 2010s, the company attempted to enter the premium international market by ordering giant Airbus A380 liners for flights to New York and London. This decision, coinciding with fluctuations in the Yen exchange rate and increased competition from new low-cost carriers, led to financial difficulties. In 2015, Skymark Airlines filed for bankruptcy protection. This crisis moment became a reboot point: with the support of the investment fund Integral and the aviation holding ANA (All Nippon Airways), the company underwent successful restructuring, preserving its brand and operational independence.

Modern Era and Innovations

Today, Skymark Airlines is a symbol of reliability and punctuality. After financial recovery, the company returned to profitability and relisted on the Tokyo Stock Exchange in 2022. In recent years, the carrier has been actively implementing marketing innovations, such as the collaboration with the Pokémon Company (the famous "Pikachu Jets"), and expanding its route network to resort destinations, including flights to the Okinawa and Miyako islands. The main achievement of recent years has been Skymark's repeated recognition as the most punctual airline in Japan, confirming the success of its updated business model.