Exciting New Direct Singapore-Osaka Flights Available Soon

Peach Aviation, a prominent Japanese low-cost carrier and a subsidiary of All Nippon Airways (ANA), is set to launch new direct flights from Singapore to Osaka, marking an exciting development for travellers in the region. Starting from December 5, 2024, this new service will operate daily, providing an affordable and convenient option for those looking to explore the vibrant city of Osaka and its surrounding attractions.

Overview of the New Service

The new direct flights will depart from Singapore’s Changi Airport (SIN) and arrive at Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Osaka. The flight schedule is designed for convenience, with departures from Singapore at 2:15 AM, arriving in Osaka at 9:35 AM. The return flight will leave Osaka at 6:50 PM, landing back in Singapore at 1:00 AM the following day. This timing is particularly advantageous for travellers looking to maximise their time in Japan.

Peach Aviation’s entry into this route is significant as it becomes the only Japanese airline operating direct flights between Singapore and Osaka. Previously, travellers had to rely on Singapore Airlines and Scoot for direct services, which often come with higher fare prices. For instance, a one-way ticket on Scoot for the same route was found to be approximately SGD 350.40, highlighting the competitive pricing offered by Peach Aviation, with one-way fares starting from just SGD 164.20 (approximately USD 126) including taxes and fees.

Advantages of the New Route

The launch of direct flights between Singapore and Osaka offers several advantages for travellers:

Time-saving: Travellers can save time by avoiding layovers or connecting flights, allowing them to reach their destination more efficiently.
Increased convenience: With daily flights, travellers have more flexibility in planning their trips and can choose from a wider range of departure and arrival times.
Cost-effective: Peach Aviation’s low-cost fares make travel to Osaka more accessible, especially for budget-conscious travellers.
Improved connectivity: The new route enhances the connectivity between Singapore and Japan, fostering stronger ties between the two countries in terms of tourism, business, and cultural exchange.

Aircraft and Onboard Experience

The flights will be operated using the Airbus A321LR, a modern aircraft that Peach Aviation introduced to its fleet in 2021. This aircraft model is known for its efficiency and comfort, featuring a seating capacity of 218 in a 3-3 configuration. The seat pitch ranges from 30 to 32 inches (approximately 76 to 81 cm), which is comparable to many full-service carriers, offering decent legroom for budget travellers. Each seat is equipped with a USB charging port, ensuring that passengers can stay connected and entertained throughout their journey.

Despite being a low-cost airline, Peach Aviation has made efforts to provide a comfortable flying experience. The A321LR’s spacious seating and modern amenities cater to both leisure and business travellers. However, it is important to note that additional charges apply for checked baggage and seat selection, as is standard with many budget airlines. Fortunately, Peach does not impose fuel surcharges on international flights, which can be a significant cost-saving factor for passengers.

In-flight Services and Amenities

While Peach Aviation is a low-cost carrier, it offers a range of in-flight services and amenities to enhance the passenger experience:

Onboard meals and snacks: Passengers can purchase a variety of meals and snacks, including Japanese cuisine, to enjoy during their flight.
Inflight entertainment: Although not included in the base fare, passengers can access a selection of movies, TV shows, and games through their personal devices using the airline’s inflight entertainment system.
Duty-free shopping: Travellers can browse and purchase duty-free items, such as cosmetics, accessories, and souvenirs, during their flight.
Peach Points loyalty programme: Passengers can earn and redeem points through the Peach Points loyalty programme, which offers various benefits and exclusive offers.

Exploring Osaka

Osaka, Japan’s second-largest city, is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and culinary delights. With the launch of these direct flights, Singaporeans will have easier access to some of Osaka’s most famous attractions.

Key Attractions in Osaka

Universal Studios Japan: A must-visit for families and entertainment enthusiasts, this theme park offers thrilling rides and attractions based on popular movies and franchises.
Osaka Castle: A historic landmark surrounded by beautiful gardens, Osaka Castle is a symbol of the city’s rich history and offers stunning views from its observation deck.
Dotonbori District: Known for its bright neon lights and bustling atmosphere, Dotonbori is the perfect place to experience Osaka’s famous street food, including takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes).
Shinsaibashi and Shinsekai: These districts provide a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment, showcasing the best of Osaka’s modern and traditional culture.
Abena Harukas 300 Observatory: For breathtaking views of the city, visitors can head to the top of Japan’s tallest building, where they can enjoy panoramic vistas and a relaxing atmosphere.

Convenient Access to Other Destinations

Kansai International Airport serves as a gateway not only to Osaka but also to other popular destinations in Japan. Travellers can easily access cities like Kyoto, Kobe, and Nara via efficient train services. For instance, it takes approximately 34 to 50 minutes to reach Osaka city centre by train, making it a convenient base for exploring the Kansai region.

Anticipated Impact on Travel

The introduction of direct flights from Singapore to Osaka is expected to boost tourism between the two regions. According to the Japan National Tourism Organisation, over 300,000 Singaporeans visited Japan in the first half of 2024 alone, and this number is likely to increase with the new flight options. The affordability of Peach Aviation’s fares may encourage more travellers to explore Japan, particularly during peak seasons such as the cherry blossom period in spring.

Potential Benefits for Businesses

In addition to tourism, the new direct flights may also benefit businesses operating between Singapore and Japan. With improved connectivity and more convenient travel options, companies can expect to see:

Increased trade and investment opportunities: The enhanced connectivity may lead to more business collaborations and partnerships between Singapore and Japan.
Improved efficiency in business operations: Executives and employees can travel more easily between the two countries, facilitating face-to-face meetings and reducing travel time.
Expanded talent pool: Companies may find it easier to attract and retain talent from both countries, as travel between Singapore and Japan becomes more accessible.

Satoru Endo, the Chief Corporate Planning Officer of Peach Aviation, expressed enthusiasm about the new route, stating, “We are very pleased that Peach will be the only Japanese airline to operate the Singapore-Osaka route. With a more spaced-out, cutting-edge Airbus A321LR aircraft, we will take you to Osaka in comfort and offer you an exciting experience in the booming Kansai region, which is set to host the Osaka-Kansai World Expo in 2025”.

Conclusion

The launch of new direct Singapore-Osaka flights by Peach Aviation represents a significant advancement in travel options for Singaporeans. With competitive pricing, modern aircraft, and convenient flight schedules, this service is set to enhance connectivity between Singapore and one of Japan’s most dynamic cities. Whether for leisure or business, travellers can look forward to exploring the rich culture, history, and culinary delights that Osaka has to offer, all while enjoying the comfort and affordability of Peach Aviation’s services. As the travel landscape continues to evolve, this new route is poised to become a popular choice for those seeking to experience the best of Japan.