The impending arrival of Typhoon Ampil in Japan has caused significant disruptions to air travel, with several Singapore Airlines (SIA) and Scoot flights to and from Tokyo affected on Thursday (Aug 15).
SIA announced that eight flights to and from Narita and Haneda airports were retimed, including six flights between Singapore and Tokyo. The airline will notify affected customers of the changes and offer them the option to be re-accommodated on alternative flights or receive a full refund for the unused portion of their ticket.
The safety of customers and crew is the top priority, according to an SIA spokesperson, who apologized for the inconvenience caused. The airline will continue to monitor the situation closely and make any necessary adjustments.
Meanwhile, Scoot cancelled two flights, TR874 and TR875, which operate between Singapore and Tokyo via Taipei, scheduled for Friday. Affected customers will be contacted and offered re-accommodation on alternative flights or a full refund.
The disruptions are part of a larger impact on air travel in Japan, with hundreds of flights and trains cancelled as Typhoon Ampil approaches. All Nippon Airways (ANA) cancelled 280 domestic flights, affecting over 60,000 passengers, while Japan Airlines scrapped 191 domestic and 26 international services, hitting 38,600 customers.
Major parts of Japan’s bullet train network are also scheduled to be cancelled on Friday, including the busy section between Tokyo and Nagoya. Japan’s weather agency has warned residents of eastern regions to prepare for violent gusts, flooding, overflowing rivers, and landslides.
The disruptions serve as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety in the face of severe weather conditions. As the typhoon continues to approach Japan, travelers are advised to stay informed and flexible, and to follow the instructions of their airlines and local authorities.