ANA’s latest special-livery aircraft takes flight
All Nippon Airways (ANA) has revealed the debut date and first scheduled flight of its new “Chiikawa Jet,” a special-livery aircraft created through the airline’s collaboration with the hugely popular Japanese character series “Chiikawa.” According to ANA’s official social media accounts, the aircraft is scheduled to enter service on October 19, 2026.
The first flight is planned to be ANA661, departing Tokyo’s Haneda Airport at 8:15 a.m. and traveling to Nagasaki. After its inaugural service, the aircraft is expected to operate on a variety of ANA domestic routes, giving passengers in different parts of Japan the opportunity to experience the themed aircraft.
A Boeing 767 featuring eight beloved characters
The aircraft assigned to the project is a Boeing 767-300 configured for domestic flights. Its registration number is JA609A. The exterior design features eight characters from the “Chiikawa” world, including Chiikawa, Hachiware and Usagi. The colorful artwork also incorporates motifs associated with the changing seasons and scenery found across Japan.
This combination of character art and Japanese seasonal imagery is particularly fitting for a domestic airline. Japan is known for its strong appreciation of seasonal culture, from cherry blossoms in spring and summer festivals to autumn foliage and winter landscapes. By bringing these familiar elements together with one of the country’s most recognizable contemporary character brands, ANA is presenting a distinctly Japanese travel experience.
Limited items available onboard
The collaboration will continue inside the cabin. Passengers traveling in economy class are expected to see ANA original Chiikawa-themed items, including specially designed headrest covers and paper cups. These details are intended to make the flight memorable for both longtime fans and international visitors discovering the characters for the first time.
ANA has invited passengers to enjoy an air journey with Chiikawa that can only be experienced through the airline. While the aircraft’s exact future rotation will depend on ANA’s domestic operations, the airline says the jet will serve various routes after its first flight. Travelers hoping to board the aircraft should check ANA’s official announcements and flight information before making plans, as aircraft assignments can change.
Why character-themed flights attract travelers
Special-livery aircraft have become a popular feature of Japan’s aviation and tourism landscape. They combine transportation with entertainment, creating an experience that begins before passengers reach their destination. For visitors, a themed flight can also become part of a wider Japan itinerary, linking major gateways such as Haneda with regional destinations like Nagasaki.
The launch of the Chiikawa Jet highlights the continuing influence of Japanese character culture on travel, retail and tourism. With its detailed exterior design and limited onboard items, ANA’s new aircraft is likely to attract fans, families and aviation enthusiasts alike. Its scheduled debut on October 19 will mark the beginning of another colorful chapter in Japan’s growing collection of character-themed travel experiences.
