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On 13 January 2026, Japan Airlines Cargo and the JR East Group will launch a new transportation service called „JAL de Hako-byun.“ This service aims to combine the advantages of the Shinkansen high-speed rail network with the international air freight offerings of Japan Airlines. Through this initiative, local regions in Japan are expected to be better connected to global markets, contributing to regional revitalization.
Integration of Rail and Air Transport
The new service utilizes the extensive rail network of the JR East Group, which focuses on eastern Japan, in conjunction with the international air freight offerings of JAL Cargo. The introduction of the service follows a successful test shipment from Sendai to Singapore in October 2025, which demonstrated the efficiency and reliability of the new transportation concept. The two companies intend to deepen their collaboration further to expand the transportation network and optimize service offerings.
By combining the frequent and punctual Shinkansen service with JAL’s fast long-haul flights, a significant reduction in transportation times compared to conventional methods is achieved. The transportation time from Sendai to Singapore is now only about 19 hours, while conventional transport takes over 24 hours.
Promotion of Regional Products and Social Responsibility
The connection of the regional rail network with JAL’s global air transport opens up broader access to international markets. This is intended to support the export of high-quality local products from Japan. Additionally, the use of rail transport helps mitigate the driver shortage and reduces CO₂ emissions through a modal shift, aligning with sustainable logistics goals.
The first commercial shipments of the new service include fresh seafood, including specialties from Fukui Prefecture such as Echizen crabs and Tsuruga sea bass. These products will be transported on January 13, 2026, from Tsuruga to Taiwan, initially by Shinkansen and then by airplane to Taipei.
The „JAL de Hako-byun“ service will be offered at various departure stations, including Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto, Shin-Aomori, Morioka, Akita, Sendai, and Niigata. The transit airports are Tokyo International Airport (Haneda) and Narita International Airport, while the destinations include Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, and Taipei.
With this initiative, Japan Airlines Cargo and the JR East Group aim to transform the logistics landscape in Japan while addressing social challenges.
