2 Disney theme park cities are connected by air travel for the first time
History is made as the ZIPAIR Orlando Tokyo flight connects two iconic Disney destinations. Guests can fly nonstop between Orlando (MCO) and Tokyo (NRT).
Until very recently, traveling from Florida to Japan (and other areas of Asia) demanded a positive attitude, plenty of patience, and multiple flights. You might begin in Orlando, but you’d perhaps travel through Atlanta, Chicago or Detroit, and Seattle before arriving in Tokyo. Then you’d do it all over again on the return journey.
However, there is now a new nonstop option with the ZIPAIR Orlando/Tokyo flight, and we were there at Orlando International Airport (MCO) to welcome the first arrivals.
History was made at MCO as the first-ever nonstop passenger flight from Tokyo touched down at 1:35 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 23, 2026, to cheers, applause, and a celebratory water salute. This inaugural charter service, operated by ZIPAIR, marks a massive milestone as the first nonstop passenger connection between Florida and the Asia Pacific region.
The arrival of Flight 714 from Tokyo’s Narita International Airport (NRT) represents the culmination of 30 years of hard work to establish Orlando as a viable route for Asian carriers.
“This arrival marks a special partnership with ZIPAIR and a special moment in Orlando International’s history,” said Lance Lyttle, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which manages Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports. “Orlando and Tokyo are two of the world’s most visited destinations. I am hopeful that this connection will help to enrich cultural ties and create more opportunities for robust economic activity.”
Photo by Jackie Roseboom
The connection is particularly exciting for theme park fans. With both Orlando and Tokyo serving as premier Disney destinations with Walt Disney World Resort and Tokyo Disney Resort, the flight carried 280 passengers, including dozens of Disney enthusiasts eager to experience the magic of Central Florida.
Arriving passengers to MCO on Feb. 23 were treated to live music and refreshments in the state-of-the-art Terminal C.
Photo by Matt Roseboom
Florida residents are already seeing the benefits of the direct route. “It was incredible. Easy, no complaints and I definitely recommend it,” said Christina Whisnant of New Smyrna Beach. “I’ll be going over more often now that I know there’s good snowboarding in Hokkaido, so it’s a nice way to get to Tokyo, roam around, and then get to Hokkaido.”
Photo courtesy of Greater Orlando Aviation Authority
While this initial service consists of four round-trip flights (including Feb. 28, March 5, and March 10), leadership at both MCO and ZIPAIR hope this charter foundation leads to permanent, scheduled service. All flights will depart Narita International Airport in the afternoon and arrive in Orlando in the afternoon; flights departing Orlando in the afternoon will arrive in Tokyo in the evening.
Whether you are heading to Tokyo to see the sights or welcoming friends from Japan to enjoy our local attractions, this nonstop ZIPAIR Orlando Tokyo flight is a significant upgrade for Central Florida travel. For more information or to book, visit ZIPAIR’s official website.
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