Orion Airline Expands Its Wings — Announcing Kobe (UKB) as Our New BaseOrion Airline is proud to announce a new milestone in our journey: the establishment of our newest operational base at
Kobe Airport (UKB). This expansion marks a defining moment for Orion, as we become the very first airline to officially base operations in Kobe, bringing new connectivity and opportunities to Japan's Kansai region.
With a spirit of innovation and accessibility, Orion continues its mission to make air travel more dynamic, efficient, and enjoyable for all. Our move into Kobe represents not just a new chapter for our airline — but a commitment to the city's growth and its future as a gateway between western Japan and the rest of Asia.
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Connecting Kobe to the Skies — Our Initial RoutesTo celebrate the launch of our new base, Orion will commence operations on two inaugural routes from Kobe (UKB):
UKB – HND (Tokyo Haneda)A seamless link between Japan's vibrant capital and the heart of Kansai. With convenient schedules and fast check-in processes, Orion makes business and leisure travel between Tokyo and Kobe easier than ever before.
UKB – CTS (Sapporo New Chitose)Head north to Hokkaido's iconic landscapes and culinary delights. From the snowy mountains of Niseko to the lively streets of Sapporo, this route connects travelers to one of Japan's most beloved destinations.
Both routes will launch with regular daily flights, providing convenient timing for morning and evening travelers alike. Additional frequencies may be introduced in line with demand growth and seasonal travel trends.
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Supporting this expansion, Orion Airline is pleased to announce the arrival of brand-new Airbus A320s and Bombardier CRJ900ER aircraft. These next-generation jets are specifically chosen for their efficiency, comfort, and performance, making them ideal for operations at Kobe's urban coastal airport.
The A320/A321 will serve as the workhorse for medium-density routes, offering high comfort seating and improved fuel efficiency, while the CRJ900ER will strengthen our domestic and regional network with flexible operations and smooth connectivity.
As these aircraft join our fleet in the coming months, Orion will continue to monitor passenger demand and adjust capacity accordingly — adding new destinations and more frequent flights as we grow with Kobe.
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Why Kobe? A City of Opportunity and ConnectionLocated on Japan's southern coast of Honshu, Kobe is a city that blends modern sophistication with deep cultural roots. Its port has long been a symbol of international exchange, and its proximity to Osaka and Kyoto makes it an ideal hub for both domestic and regional travel.
Orion recognizes Kobe's unique potential — as an alternative to congested Kansai airports, as a vibrant center for business and tourism, and as a launchpad for future growth across East Asia.
By establishing a base here, Orion Airline aims to:
- Strengthen domestic and regional connectivity across Japan and Asia.
- Support Kobe's local economy through job creation and tourism growth.
- Provide travelers with a new choice of flexible, customer-focused air travel.
From the Heart of Japan, Across the SkyOrion Airline