Japanese low-cost airline to start nonstop flights between Houston and Tokyo next year

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Texans will soon have a new option to fly to Asia, with Japanese low-cost airline ZIPAIR launching nonstop flights from Houston in 2025.

The flights between Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT) will begin March 4.

Flights will operate four times a week, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, on Boeing 787-8 aircraft. Tickets are already on sale, with a limited-time offer as low as $333 one-way.

"We welcome ZIPAIR to Houston, as it reflects our city's prominence on the global stage," Houston Mayor John Whitmire said in a press release Thursday. "The new route between Houston and Tokyo will strengthen our business ties with Japan and the broader Asia-Pacific region. It will also bring more visitors to experience Houston’s vibrant culture, world-class healthcare and diverse industries."

ZIPAIR already offers nonstop service from Japan to Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose and Vancouver.

Nonstop flights from IAH to NRT are already operated by United Airlines. Japanese airline All Nippon Airways also flies from IAH to Tokyo's Haneda Airport.

Houston isn't the only Texas city getting new long-haul service. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport will soon have nonstop service to Fiji, beginning in December, and Hong Kong, beginning in April.