Japan Airlines (JAL) has launched an enticing promotion offering free domestic round-trip flights within Japan — but only for travellers from select countries. Unfortunately for Singaporeans, Singapore is not on the list.
This campaign is part of JAL’s efforts to boost tourism in lesser-known regions beyond popular hotspots like Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto. To qualify, tourists must book a round-trip international flight with JAL from their home country to Japan. Once confirmed, they can apply for two free domestic flight legs to explore cities like Sapporo, Okinawa, Aomori and Fukuoka.
Only for Selected Nationalities
Eligible countries include:
- United States
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Vietnam
- Indonesia
- Philippines
- Thailand
- Mexico
- China
- Taiwan
- India
Singapore, Malaysia, and most African and European countries are notably absent from this list, prompting disappointment among travellers in those regions.
According to JAL’s terms, applicants must be citizens or legal residents of the listed countries, and the international flight must be operated by Japan Airlines — codeshare flights with partner airlines do not qualify.
Example: Free Flights for Philippine Travellers
One traveller, Mercy R. Delfin from the Philippines, confirmed the promotion’s legitimacy. Her itinerary included:
- Manila to Tokyo (JAL international flight)
- Tokyo to Aomori (free)
- Aomori to Tokyo (free)
- Tokyo to Manila
She noted that booking the free domestic flights online was confusing, and a JAL ticketing officer helped finalise her itinerary. Other travellers echoed her advice to seek assistance, either from JAL offices or trusted travel agents.
Limited Seats and Conditions Apply
While this offer is free, there are seat limitations and the flights must be booked on the same JAL itinerary. Domestic flights must be selected during or after booking your international ticket, and cannot be added later if the itinerary is already finalised.
Many netizens praised the initiative for encouraging tourism beyond Tokyo, but others expressed frustration about lack of transparency, confusing online booking, and nationality restrictions.
Singaporeans Left Out
The absence of Singapore from the eligibility list has drawn criticism. Many questioned why ASEAN neighbours like the Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia are included — but not Singapore. Some speculated that it could be due to market saturation or bilateral policies.
Worth It?
Travellers weighing this offer should note that while the flights are free, time costs like airport transfers, baggage claims, and check-in queues may make the Shinkansen a better option for short-distance trips. Still, for places like Okinawa or Hokkaido, the JAL flights offer unmatched value.
This campaign is a limited-time initiative, and travellers are advised to check directly with JAL’s official website or contact local offices for full details.
Bottom line: JAL’s free flight promotion is real, but if you’re holding a Singapore passport, you’ll have to sit this one out — for now.