New Kitakyushu airport (KKJ)

New Kitakyushu Airport (IATA: KKJ, ICAO: RJFR) serves as a vital transportation hub in the city of Kitakyushu, situated in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. Opened in March 2006, this regional airport was established to bolster the economic and logistical framework of the region, accommodating increasing air traffic demands and promoting local tourism and business activities. The airport also symbolized a significant investment in regional infrastructure, aimed at enhancing connectivity within Japan and with select international destinations.

Strategically located on an artificial island in the Seto Inland Sea, approximately 3 kilometers from the city's main urban area, New Kitakyushu Airport benefits from its proximity to major industrial zones, making it a convenient choice for business travelers and cargo flights. The airport operates 24 hours a day, which is a rare attribute in Japan, attracting numerous airlines for both passenger and freight services.

As of the most recent statistics, New Kitakyushu Airport handles an estimated 1.4 million passengers annually and facilitates around 13,000 flights. The airport hosts a range of domestic flights operated by major Japanese airlines such as All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Japan Airlines (JAL), alongside several low-cost carriers like Jetstar Japan. While predominantly focusing on domestic routes, the airport also offers select international flights to destinations in East Asia, thereby expanding its connectivity footprint.

The airport's modern terminal is designed to provide passengers with a seamless travel experience, encompassing a variety of amenities including shopping outlets, dining options, and efficient transportation links to the city center. As it continues to evolve, New Kitakyushu Airport remains committed to enhancing its services and infrastructure to cater to the growing demands of both passengers and airlines.