Japão

Japan's airport sector is highly advanced and efficient, serving as a major connectivity hub in Asia. The primary international airports are Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND) in Tokyo, along with Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Osaka. The main regulatory body is Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), which oversees air operations, safety, and civil aviation policies. Japanese aviation operates under stringent safety and service quality standards, with regulations focused on consumer protection and compliance with international aviation treaties, such as the Montreal Convention.

Unlike the European Union, Japan does not have a single, detailed regulation (like EC 261/2004) that defines fixed monetary compensation amounts for delays. Passenger rights in Japan are governed by each airline's Terms and Conditions of Carriage, aligned with the Montreal Convention.

• Material Assistance: In case of significant delays or cancellations for which the airline is responsible, carriers are expected to provide assistance (meals, communication, and, if necessary, accommodation).
• Compensation: An airline's liability for damages arising from delays is limited and assessed on a case-by-case basis. Passengers should submit complaints directly at the airline's counter or through their customer service portals. The MLIT acts as a mediator in cases of serious disputes, but resolution through judicial or administrative channels focuses on compensation for proven direct damages.

There is no federal Japanese law dictating exact free baggage limits; allowance policies are determined by individual airlines.

• Carry-on Baggage: Most airlines operate with a standard of 7kg to 10kg, but this varies depending on the fare class.
• Regulation: The Japanese government mandates transparency in fares. Airlines are obligated to clearly inform passengers during the booking process whether baggage is included or if extra fees apply. Restricted items follow international standards set by ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization).

Japan has strict biosecurity rules (primarily for rabies prevention).

• Procedure: Pets (dogs and cats) must undergo inspection by the Animal Quarantine Service (AQS).
• Requirements: Microchip identification (ISO standard), up-to-date rabies vaccination, and a health certificate from the country of origin are mandatory.
• Quarantine: If all requirements are met in advance (40-day prior notification to the AQS), the quarantine period can be reduced to 12 hours or less. Without strict compliance, the animal may be subject to official quarantine for up to 180 days.
• Species: Entry for other animals (birds, reptiles) requires CITES certificates and specific permits from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF).

• Unaccompanied Minors: Airlines have specific programs (*Unaccompanied Minor Service*) for children traveling alone, requiring authorization forms from guardians.
• Documentation: Japan does not require a notarized travel authorization for foreign minors departing the country. However, it is recommended to carry a consent letter in English if a minor is traveling with only one parent or a third party to avoid immigration inquiries.

Japan is a global leader in accessibility.

• Barrier-Free Law: The "Act for Facilitating the Smooth Mobility of Disabled Persons and Elderly Persons" ensures that all Japanese airports are designed to be barrier-free.
• Services: Passengers with reduced mobility are entitled to free assistance within terminals (wheelchairs, help with boarding/disembarking). This service must be requested at least 48 hours in advance from the airline.

• Passport: Must have a minimum validity of 6 months from the date of entry.
• Visas: Japan maintains visa exemption agreements with many countries.
• JESTA (Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization): In 2026, Japan implemented the JESTA system for travelers from visa-exempt countries. This is a mandatory electronic authorization that must be applied for online before boarding, similar to the European ETIAS or the US ESTA.
• Visit Japan Web: Filling out the digital form on the *Visit Japan Web* portal (Immigration and Customs) is highly recommended to expedite entry.

• Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT): https://www.mlit.go.jp/en/
• Animal Quarantine Service (AQS) - Import of Dogs and Cats: https://www.maff.go.jp/aqs/english/
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (MOFA) - Visas: https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/index.html
• Official Visit Japan Web Portal: https://www.vjw.digital.go.jp/
• Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO): https://www.japan.travel/en/plan/travel-essentials/