Kobe airport (UKB)

Kobe Airport (IATA: UKB, ICAO: RJBE) is a modern regional airport situated on an artificial island in the port city of Kobe, Japan. Officially opening its doors to the public in February 2006, the airport was primarily developed to alleviate congestion at Kansai and Osaka Itami airports while serving the local Kansai metropolitan area. Located approximately 8 kilometers south of downtown Kobe, the airport offers spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding cityscape.

Designed to handle domestic flights efficiently, Kobe Airport has a single runway (2,500 meters long) and a passenger terminal equipped with modern amenities to facilitate smooth air travel. Despite being categorized as a regional airport, it has fostered connections and vital economic links within Japan, with a few international flights as well.

In recent years, Kobe Airport has seen a steady increase in its traffic. In 2019, before the global pandemic impacted air travel, it handled approximately 2.9 million passengers and recorded over 49,000 aircraft movements. The airport supports operations by several key airlines, including ANA (All Nippon Airways), Skymark Airlines, and JAL (Japan Airlines), ensuring a robust selection of routes predominantly within Japan.

Kobe Airport's strategic location and efficient operations make it an important gateway for both business travel and tourism. The airport's connectivity is further enhanced by excellent transportation links including the Port Liner, an automated guideway transit that connects the airport with central Kobe, making it convenient and accessible for passengers.