Air Do

Solaseed Air is a vibrant representative of Japanese regional aviation, whose name symbolically combines the energy of the sun ("Solar") and the beginning of new life ("Seed"). This airline strives not just to transport passengers from point A to point B, but to create an atmosphere of warmth and care, spreading smiles across the country. Thanks to its recognizable pistachio-green branding and high standards of Japanese hospitality, Solaseed Air turns every flight into a cozy and comfortable journey.

History and Development
Originally founded as Skynet Asia Airways, the company underwent a massive rebranding in 2011, becoming Solaseed Air. This step marked a new era in the carrier's development, aimed at strengthening connections between regions and major metropolises. The airline plays an important role in developing local tourism and supporting local communities, often participating in regional revitalization programs.

Fleet and Comfort
The Solaseed Air fleet is unified and consists of modern Boeing 737-800 liners. This allows for maintaining high standards of technical maintenance and punctuality. The aircraft cabins are equipped with new interiors featuring increased legroom and modern LED lighting, creating a relaxing atmosphere during the flight.

Service Features
The airline's hallmark is its unique onboard service. Passengers are often offered the signature "Ago-yuzu" soup, made from flying fish and yuzu citrus, highlighting the company's connection to local culinary traditions. Special attention is paid to female travelers: special amenities and zones (in certain configurations) are provided on board to ensure additional comfort.

Safety
Like all Japanese carriers, Solaseed Air adheres to the strictest global safety standards. The company regularly receives high ratings for the technical condition of its fleet and the professionalism of its crews. The company's mission is to ensure "Safety First," which is confirmed by a long history of accident-free flights and the trust of millions of passengers.

Solaseed Air Contacts

Contacting Solaseed Air representatives is quite simple, however, it is worth noting that the primary language of communication is Japanese. For international tourists, the most convenient way to interact is by using the official website or calling the international contact centre, where basic support in English can be provided.

Official Website
www.solaseedair.jp/en/ (English Version)

Contact Information

• Official Website: A feedback form is available on the site for sending enquiries via email.
• Reservation and Information Centre (for calls from abroad): +81 6 7637 8817
• Reservation Centre (for calls within Japan): 0570-037-283 (Navi Dial)
• Support Hours: Daily from 08:00 to 20:00 (Japan Standard Time).
• Special Assistance (for passengers with disabilities): +81 3 6744 2834 (or via the form on the website).

Social Media
The airline actively maintains pages on social networks, publishing news and inspiring photos from flight regions (predominantly in Japanese):

• Instagram: @solaseedair_official
• Facebook: Solaseed Air Official
• X (Twitter): @SolaseedAir_JP
• YouTube: Solaseed Air Channel

Offices and Check-in Counters
The airline's headquarters is located in the city of Miyazaki. Passenger service is provided at branded counters at departure airports. You can find Solaseed Air representatives in the terminals of the following key cities in the route network:

• Tokyo (Haneda): Terminal 2, domestic departure counters.
• Sapporo (New Chitose): Domestic airline check-in counters.
• Other Airports: Counters are available at the airports of Fukuoka, Nagoya, Osaka (Kobe Airport), and Sendai during flight check-in.

Please note: Contact phone numbers and operating hours are subject to change. We strongly recommend checking the latest information on the official website before traveling.

Solaseed Air Baggage Rules

Preparing luggage is an important part of trip planning, especially in Japan, where rules are followed with particular care. Solaseed Air, positioning itself as a comfortable airline, offers more generous conditions than many low-cost carriers, but knowing the restrictions will help you avoid unnecessary expenses at the airport.

Carry-on Baggage

Every Solaseed Air passenger is entitled to bring carry-on baggage on board. The rules here are standard for Japanese domestic airlines and are strictly controlled before the security checkpoint.

• Number of items: You are allowed 1 standard bag and 1 personal item (handbag, briefcase, camera, or shopping bag from the airport). Total of no more than 2 items.
• Weight: The total weight of both items must not exceed 10 kg.
• Dimensions: The sum of the three dimensions of the bag must not exceed 115 cm (approximately 55 cm × 40 cm × 25 cm).

If your bag exceeds these dimensions or weight, it must be checked into the cargo hold. On busy flights, for example from Tokyo, staff may ask you to check even compliant carry-on luggage if there is insufficient space in the overhead bins.

Checked Baggage

One of the main advantages of Solaseed Air is the included free baggage allowance, which favourably distinguishes it from budget carriers.

• Free Allowance: Each passenger is allowed to check in up to 20 kg of baggage free of charge.
• Dimensions: The sum of three dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed 203 cm. Long items (such as skis) are accepted if their length does not exceed 250 cm.
• Weight Limit per Piece: The maximum weight of a single piece of baggage cannot exceed 32 kg (even if paying for excess weight) for the safety of baggage handlers.

Excess Baggage

If the weight of your suitcase exceeds 20 kg but is less than 100 kg (total weight), you will have to pay an excess weight fee. Rates depend on the route. For example, on short-distance flights, such as from Osaka, the fee will be lower than on long routes, such as the Fukuoka — Sapporo flight. Payment is made at the check-in counter at the airport.

Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments

Transporting non-standard baggage on Solaseed Air flights has its own specifics:

• Sports Equipment: Golf bags, skis, snowboards, and surfboards can be transported within the free baggage allowance. If their weight combined with the suitcase exceeds 20 kg, an excess weight fee is charged. It is important to pack equipment securely to avoid damage.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be taken into the cabin if they fit within carry-on dimensions. For large instruments (cello, guitar), it is recommended to either check them in a hard case or purchase a separate seat for them in the cabin (Instrument Seat).

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Japan has strict flight safety rules. Before packing your suitcases, ensure you are not violating any regulations:

• Strictly Prohibited: Explosives, flammable liquids, gas, fireworks.
• Carry-on Only: Lithium batteries (Power Banks), electronic cigarettes, valuables, and documents. Lighters (only one allowed per person).
• Checked Baggage Only: Knives, scissors, tools, and any items simulating weapons.

Packing Tips for Travelers in Japan

When planning a trip, for example from the city of Nagoya or Sendai, keep in mind that Japanese airports are very efficient but demanding regarding rules.

1. Weigh your luggage in advance. Most hotels in Japan have scales. This will help distribute weight between your suitcase and carry-on before arriving at the airport.
2. Use soft bags. If you plan to travel a lot by train after arrival, soft bags or 4-wheeled suitcases will be more convenient than hard cases.
3. Do not lock your suitcase tightly. Use TSA-standard locks, as security may inspect baggage in your absence (although in Japan this happens less frequently and usually in the passenger's presence before baggage drop).

Traveling with Pets on Solaseed Air Flights

Solaseed Air is understanding towards pet owners, considering pets an important part of the family. However, like most Japanese carriers, the company adheres to strict safety and hygiene rules, so options for traveling with pets have clear limitations that are important to know before purchasing a ticket.

Transport Options

In the Cabin (Carry-on)

Unlike many Western airlines, strict restrictions apply to animals in the passenger cabin on domestic flights in Japan.

• Allowed Animals: Transporting ordinary household pets (cats, dogs, birds) in the aircraft cabin is prohibited.
• Exceptions: Only officially certified guide dogs, hearing dogs, and mobility assistance dogs are allowed in the cabin.
• Conditions for Service Dogs: The dog is accommodated at the owner's feet free of charge; it must wear a harness, and the owner must carry the animal's training certificate.

In the Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

This is the primary method of transporting pets on Solaseed Air flights. Animals travel in a special air-conditioned section of the cargo hold.

• Container Requirements: The cage must be rigid (plastic or metal), lock securely, and allow the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally. Soft carriers are not permitted.
• Cage Rental: The airline provides cages for rent (sizes S, M, L) at the check-in counter if your own carrier does not meet safety standards.
• Accepted Animals: Dogs, cats, small birds, rabbits, hamsters, and other small domestic animals.
• Climate Conditions: The compartment maintains pressure and temperature close to cabin levels, however, temperature fluctuations are possible during loading and unloading outdoors.

As Cargo (For Large Animals)

If your pet or its cage is too large for standard baggage check-in, processing through the cargo terminal will be required.

• When Required: If the weight of the animal together with the cage exceeds the allowable limits for baggage or if the cage has non-standard dimensions.
• Procedure: Such transport must be arranged in advance through the cargo department.

Necessary Documents

For domestic flights, for example along the popular route Tokyo — Sapporo, the list of documents is minimal but mandatory:

• Consent for Transport (Pet Check-in Sheet): A document signed by the owner at the check-in counter, confirming responsibility for the animal's health.
• Vaccination Certificate: For dogs, a valid rabies vaccination is mandatory (administered no less than 2 weeks and no more than a year before departure).
• Health Certificate: It is recommended to have a current certificate from a veterinarian stating that the animal is healthy and fit to fly, especially for elderly pets.

Service Costs

Rates for pet transport with Solaseed Air are fixed and depend on the specific route, not the weight of the animal (within allowable baggage dimensions).

• Transport in Cargo Hold: The cost usually ranges from 4,000 to 6,500 yen per cage, one way.
• Routes: The pet ticket price applies to each flight segment. This is relevant for all network destinations, whether it is an Osaka — Sapporo flight or a Nagoya — Sapporo flight.
• Payment: Made in Japanese yen directly at the check-in counter at the airport before departure.

Preparation Tips

To ensure the flight is as comfortable as possible for your pet, follow these simple recommendations:

• Feeding: Feed the animal 2–3 hours before departure to avoid motion sickness, but provide access to water right up until dispatch.
• Water: Install a spill-proof water dispenser in the cage, as the air in the aircraft is dry.
• Familiar Scents: Place a favourite toy or bedding with a familiar scent in the cage to reduce the animal's stress level.
• Arrival Time: Arrive at airports such as Fukuoka or Sendai at least 60–90 minutes before departure for calm processing of all paperwork and handing over the pet.

Restrictions

The airline reserves the right to refuse transport in the following cases:

• Brachycephalic Breeds: During the summer period (usually from May 1 to October 31), snub-nosed dogs (Pugs, Bulldogs, Shih Tzus) are not accepted for transport due to the high risk of respiratory problems at high temperatures and humidity.
• Age: Puppies and kittens younger than 8 weeks are not permitted to fly.
• Pregnancy: Transport of pregnant females in late stages is prohibited.
• Prohibited Species: Fish, turtles, and insects are generally not accepted in baggage due to the risk of water leakage or specific habitat requirements.

Please note: The number of spaces for animals in the cargo hold on each flight is limited. We strongly recommend booking a space for your pet in advance by contacting the Solaseed Air contact centre immediately after purchasing your ticket.

Solaseed Smile Club Loyalty Program

The airline invites passengers to join the proprietary loyalty program Solaseed Smile Club, which makes traveling around Japan even more rewarding. This system is designed with a focus on simplicity and accessibility, allowing travelers to earn miles for every flight and exchange them for pleasant bonuses.

Membership Tiers

Unlike large international carriers, the structure of Solaseed Smile Club is more concise and focused on branded cardholders. The main division is by membership type:

• Solaseed Smile Club Member: The basic level, available to everyone after free registration, allowing the accumulation and spending of miles.
• Solaseed Air Card Holder: Elite status for holders of co-branded credit cards, giving bonuses for mileage accumulation and discounts on board.
• Solaseed Air Gold (for Gold Card holders): Maximum privileges, including priority check-in at certain airports and extended mileage validity.

How to Earn Miles

The mileage accumulation system is simple and transparent, with the main emphasis on actual flights and the use of partner services.

• Flights: You receive miles for each flight segment; for example, for a Tokyo — Sapporo flight, about 50-75% of the distance is credited depending on the fare.
• Credit Cards: Paying for purchases with a Solaseed Air card allows you to convert V-Points into airline miles at a favourable rate.
• Special Campaigns: Promotions are periodically held with double mileage accrual on popular routes, such as Osaka — Sapporo.
• Everyday Purchases: Accumulating points through partner programs of Japanese retail chains with subsequent conversion.

How to Spend Miles

Using accumulated points is the most pleasant part of the program, especially considering the fairly low thresholds for receiving rewards.

• Award Tickets: Exchange miles for free flights across the entire route network, including flights from cities like Fukuoka or Nagoya.
• "Together with Miles" System: The ability to pay part of the ticket cost with miles if you do not have enough for a full award ticket.
• Points Exchange: Convert Solaseed miles into partner program points (e.g., Air Do points) to expand flight geography.
• Share with Family: The program allows pooling miles from family members to obtain an award ticket faster.

Alliance Participation and Partnership

Solaseed Air is not a member of global alliances (Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld), however, it has a strategically important partnership.

• Key Partner — ANA (All Nippon Airways): Most Solaseed Air flights are code-shared with ANA.
• Important Condition: If you buy a ticket under an ANA code, you accumulate miles in the ANA Mileage Club; if under a Solaseed code — in the Smile Club.

How to Join

Anyone can become a member of the program; the procedure takes just a few minutes.

• Registration: Fill out a simple form on the official Solaseed Air website (available in English and Japanese).
• Getting a Number: After registration, you instantly receive a digital membership number and access to your personal account.
• Mobile App: It is recommended to download the airline's app for convenient balance tracking and presenting your digital card.

Service Classes and Onboard Comfort

Solaseed Air occupies a unique niche in Japanese aviation, positioning itself as a "hybrid" airline. This means passengers receive a level of service close to full-service carriers (FSC) but at more affordable fares. The airline does not divide the cabin into business and economy classes, offering a single high standard of comfort for all travelers.

Service Class: Spacious Economy
A single cabin configuration — Economy Class — operates on all Solaseed Air flights. However, this is not the cramped economy found on low-cost carriers. The company prides itself on offering one of the most generous seat pitches among Japanese domestic airlines.

Seat Configuration
The airline's fleet consists of Boeing 737-800 aircraft equipped with the modern Boeing Sky Interior.

• Seating Layout: Classic 3-3 scheme (three seats on the left, three on the right).
• Seat Pitch: The distance between rows is an impressive 81 cm (32 inches). This allows even tall passengers to feel free during long flights, for example, on the Fukuoka — Sapporo route.
• Design: Slim and ergonomic seatbacks further increase knee space.

Food and Beverages

Unlike budget airlines where you have to pay for water, Solaseed Air includes beverage service in the ticket price. This is a manifestation of Japanese hospitality, Omotenashi.

Signature Drink Menu
Flight attendants will offer you a choice of hot and cold drinks. Particularly popular are:

• "Ago-yuzu" Soup: The airline's calling card. A hot broth made from flying fish (ago) with the addition of aromatic yuzu citrus from Nagasaki Prefecture. This drink is perfect for warming up if you are flying to snowy Sapporo.
• Drinks: Original apple juice, green tea, high-quality coffee, and mineral water.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Solaseed Air aircraft do not have individual monitors in the seatbacks, however, passengers will not be bored thanks to the modern streaming system.

Solaseed Air Wi-Fi Service
A free wireless entertainment system service available to every passenger.

• How it works: You connect to the onboard Wi-Fi network from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop.
• Content: A wide selection of video programs, Japanese TV shows, children's cartoons, and electronic magazines is available.
• Important: This service is intended for viewing internal content and does not provide access to the global internet (social networks, email) during the flight.

Amenities and Special Services

The company pays close attention to details to make the flight comfortable for all categories of passengers embarking on a journey, whether from the capital Tokyo or the regional centre of Sendai.

For Women
A unique feature of Solaseed Air is the presence of a priority lavatory for women (usually located in the rear of the aircraft). This creates additional convenience and privacy. Additionally, blankets and pillows are available upon request.

For Passengers with Children
The airline welcomes young travelers. On board, the following are provided:

• Toys and souvenirs for children (colouring books, origami).
• Possibility to rent a child seat (must be booked in advance).
• Priority boarding for families with children under 3 years old.
• Assistance from flight attendants in preparing baby food (warming bottles).

Assistance for Passengers with Disabilities
Solaseed Air staff undergo special training to assist passengers with special needs. At departure airports, such as Osaka or Nagoya, wheelchairs are provided for movement to the aircraft, and priority boarding is carried out.

Please note: The specific set of services may vary depending on the flight duration and aircraft type.

Solaseed Air's route network ensures stable and comfortable connections between key Japanese metropolises and the northern island of Hokkaido. Currently, the main hub airport for these destinations is Sapporo, where flights arrive daily from the central and southern regions of the country.

Useful Tips for Travelers Flying with Solaseed Air

To ensure your trip around Japan goes as smoothly as possible, it is worth knowing a few nuances of how this unique airline works. Solaseed Air combines features of a classic carrier and a low-cost airline, so proper planning will help you save money and time.

Best Time to Book and Finding Low Fares

Japan is famous for high transport prices, but Solaseed Air offers excellent opportunities for saving if you take care of tickets in advance.

• Early Booking Fares: The most advantageous offers are called "Baribari" (75, 60, 35, or 28 days before departure). The earlier you buy a ticket, the cheaper it will be. The price difference between buying 2 months in advance and a week in advance can be more than 50%.
• Special Fares for Tourists: Be sure to check for the "Solaseed Air ENJOY JAPAN Fare." This is a special offer for international tourists, allowing flights at a fixed low price (often around 11,000 yen) for any distance within the route network.
• Seasonality: Avoid booking during national holidays: "Golden Week" (early May), Obon (mid-August), and New Year. On these days, discounts are practically non-existent, and tickets sell out instantly.

Online Check-in and Airport Procedures

Efficiency is valued in Japanese airports, and Solaseed Air provides convenient digital tools to maintain it.

• Online Check-in: Opens 24 hours before departure. You can check in via the website or mobile app. Upon completion, you will receive a mobile boarding pass (QR code).
• Direct to Security: If you do not have checked baggage, with the received QR code you can go straight to the security checkpoint, bypassing check-in counter queues. This is especially convenient in large busy hubs like Tokyo (Haneda).
• Baggage Drop: If you have a suitcase, use the Drop-off counters or automated baggage drop terminals (available at some airports) by scanning your boarding pass.

Seat Selection Tips

Seat selection with Solaseed Air is generally free with most fares, which is a big plus.

• Views of Fuji: When flying from Tokyo towards the north (for example, to the city of Sapporo), stunning views of Mount Fuji open up in clear weather. Usually, for this, you should choose seats on the left side (seats A). When flying back to Tokyo — on the right side (seats K).
• Comfort: If you want to exit the plane faster upon arrival, choose seats in the front of the cabin. The seat pitch is equally comfortable everywhere (81 cm), but the first row traditionally has slightly more legroom (although bags cannot be placed under the seat there).

Solaseed Air Mobile App

Although the app is primarily oriented towards the Japanese market, it is intuitive and extremely useful during the trip.

• All tickets in one place: The app stores your bookings and updates flight status information in real-time (boarding gate, delays).
• Quick Access: No need to print papers — simply show the smartphone screen at security control and boarding.

Insurance Recommendations

Medical care in Japan is at the highest level but is very expensive for foreigners without insurance.

• Delay Coverage: Given that weather conditions in Japan can change (typhoons in summer, snowfalls in winter in cities like Sendai), it is recommended to take out travel insurance covering flight delays or cancellations. This will help compensate for hotel and meal expenses in case of unforeseen circumstances.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the Japanese hospitality of Solaseed Air without unnecessary hassle or overpayment.

History and Development of Solaseed Air

The path of Solaseed Air is a story of transformation from a local carrier into a significant player in the Japanese aviation market, connecting the southern regions of the country with major metropolises and northern territories.

Foundation and Early Years: The Skynet Asia Era
The company was established in 1997 in Miyazaki Prefecture (Kyushu Island) under the name Pan Asia Airlines, but actually began operations in 2002 under the brand Skynet Asia Airways (SNA). At that time, the Japanese air transport market was heavily regulated, and the emergence of a new airline was a bold step. The first route was a flight between Miyazaki and Tokyo. The carrier's main goal was to provide affordable fares for Kyushu residents wishing to visit the capital.

Rebranding and the Birth of Solaseed Air
A key milestone in the company's history was 2011. To move away from the image of a simple discounter and emphasize the increased quality of service, a massive rebranding was conducted. The new name — Solaseed Air — combined the words "Sola" (sky) and "Seed," symbolizing the sowing of seeds of happiness and smiles in the sky. The image change was accompanied by the introduction of a bright pistachio-green livery, which differed radically from the strict colours of competitors.

Merger and Strategic Partnerships
The most important stage of modern development was a strategic union. In 2022, Solaseed Air and Air Do (based in Hokkaido) created a joint holding structure, RegionalPlus Wings Corp. This unique merger allowed two regional carriers to pool resources whilst preserving their unique brands. Thanks to this union, the connection between the south of Japan and the north, particularly with the city of Sapporo, was strengthened.

Fleet Evolution
At the beginning of its journey under the Skynet Asia brand, the company operated used Boeing 737-400 aircraft, often decorated with colourful but motley advertising liveries. With the transition to the Solaseed Air brand, a program of complete fleet modernization began. The company switched to a unified fleet of new-generation Boeing 737-800 aircraft. This decision allowed not only for reducing fuel and maintenance costs but also for offering passengers a new level of comfort thanks to the Boeing Sky Interior with modern LED lighting.

Route Network Expansion
Initially focused only on flights from Miyazaki, the airline gradually expanded its presence. Flights were launched from other Kyushu cities (Kagoshima, Kumamoto, Nagasaki, Oita) to Tokyo. Later, a significant step was the opening of a base at Naha Airport (Okinawa), which allowed connecting the islands to each other. Today, thanks to partnerships and expansion, the route map covers key hubs of the country. Flights to the north have gained particular popularity, including the Fukuoka — Sapporo and Nagoya — Sapporo directions, ensuring convenient transit for tourists across the entire country.

Innovation and the "Sorakoi" Project
Solaseed Air is known for its unique approach to regional development. The launched "Sorakoi" (Love for the Sky/Regions) project involves branding aircraft with symbols of various municipalities of Kyushu and Okinawa. Flight attendants on such flights wear special aprons, and passengers are distributed information booklets about the attractions of the specific region. This is not just marketing, but a real contribution by the airline to the tourist appeal of small Japanese cities.