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TOKYO: Frequent travellers to Japan often complain that Narita International Airport is too far from Tokyo. But now, there is a faster way to get to the city.
A regular helicopter service began in September 2009 connecting the airport and central Tokyo, which are 60 kilometres apart. One can land among skyscrapers and the famous Tokyo Tower after 30 minutes of clearing customs at the airport.
During the special campaign period, the helicopter ride cost US$420, while a taxi ride that takes twice the time costs US$230. The service includes a pick up from the airport to the helicopter service terminal in Sakura City in Chiba Prefecture.
Narita is, in fact, not in Tokyo. And the surroundings are farms and golf courses.
With the help of the helicopter ride, access to Tokyo is not only quick but one can enjoy a fantastic view of the metropolis. And if it is not cloudy, one can catch a glimpse of Mt Fuji.
The ride is comfortable, and the noise the helicopter emits is said to be much quieter than a conventional helicopter. Designed by the famed French brand Hermes, it is only one of two such helicopters in the world.
However, one might wonder what took so long to launch the service, considering Narita International Airport has been up and running since 1978.
Yoshimitsu Isoi, executive vice president, Mori Building Air Services said: "In Japan, there are regulations to fly a helicopter, and so it is strict about transporting people.
"Akasaka's Ark Hills is the only place in Tokyo where it can land and be used by people. It was once used by a news outlet. We bought the rights five years ago. We made adjustments and have been able to launch this service."
So far, they are transporting an average of 150 customers a month - much lower than the number needed to make this service profitable.
Mr Isoi said: "In the beginning, most were Japanese. Currently we are seeing more foreigners. Now nearly half are foreigners.
"It appears that more from outside Japan have started to learn about this. We hope more from Asia will take this to reach Tokyo."
The operator can make 11 round trips a day, so there is room to take more reservations. It has alliances with a couple of airlines and is looking to form partnerships with five-star hotels in Tokyo, to get more customers.
- CNA/sc
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