Exciting news for travelers! Singapore Airlines (SIA) has just unveiled a groundbreaking joint venture with All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan's largest airline, promising to enhance travel options to lesser-known destinations across Japan. This long-awaited partnership is set to make exploring rural Japan as easy as a hop on a plane.

The partnership, which officially launched on April 17, aims to synchronize flight schedules, optimize seat capacity, and harmonize fares on flights connecting Singapore to Japan. With ANA offering service to an impressive 61 domestic airports—from the northern reaches of Hokkaido to the tropical shores of Okinawa—this collaboration opens up a treasure trove of travel possibilities.

Starting in May, travelers can purchase "joint-fare tickets" that allow seamless transitions between flights operated by both airlines, drastically reducing layover times while also offering better value for money. Flights under this new agreement are scheduled to commence in September.

SIA's CEO, Goh Choon Phong, expressed confidence in the partnership, noting that combining resources with a leading airline like ANA enables travelers to navigate Japan's extensive domestic network more conveniently.

As Japanese tourism continues to soar, evidenced by a record 10.5 million visitors in the first quarter of 2025—a 23.1% increase from the previous year—passengers from Singapore are also discovering new regions beyond major cities like Tokyo and Osaka. Areas such as Okinawa and Gifu are seeing impressive increases in overnight stays.

This joint venture is also a boon for local communities in Japan, providing better connectivity for residents in regions served by ANA's domestic flights to reach Singapore.

Moreover, Changi Airport in Singapore is poised to solidify its status as a key transit hub, with plans for joint-fare flights to Australia, India, Indonesia, and Malaysia, pending regulatory approval.

ANI’s chief executive, Shinichi Inoue, emphasized that this collaboration would benefit both nations. "Together, we can bridge Asia and foster growth for both our countries," he remarked, highlighting the importance of adaptive cooperation in today’s fast-evolving travel landscape.

This new venture builds on the existing code-share agreement between the two airlines, which has been in place since 2004, further deepening their relationship as they now work as one cohesive team rather than just partners.

With regulatory hurdles now cleared, the stage is set for an exciting future where SIA and ANA can better meet customer needs while expanding their horizons.

As both airlines strive to enhance their frequent flyer programs, expect more ways to earn miles and enjoy perks across a wider array of fare classes. The rising middle class in regions like ASEAN and India makes this partnership particularly strategic for tapping into the increasing demand for travel.

"By introducing travelers to Japan's hidden treasures, we can offer experiences unlike any other," Inoue enthused.

So get ready, travelers! Your adventures in Japan's picturesque landscapes and vibrant rural communities are just a flight away.