Narita and Haneda Airports to Be Connected by Express Train in 2030s

A new limited express train service in Japan that will directly connect Narita Airport and Haneda Airport is expected to begin operations in the 2030s, slashing the current travel time of around 90 minutes between the two airports. According to sources familiar with the matter on Friday, the move aims to make it easier for international tourists arriving at Narita Airport in Chiba Prefecture to transfer to domestic flights at Haneda Airport in Tokyo and continue their journey to various destinations across Japan. Keisei Electric Railway Co. plans to launch the new limited express service in fiscal 2028 between Narita Airport Station and Oshiage Station in Tokyo’s Sumida District. Subsequently, in the 2030s, the service will be extended via the Toei Asakusa Line and Keikyu Line to reach Haneda Airport. The project also includes the construction of a new elevated station and additional tracks for Keisei’s Narita Sky Access Line at Narita Airport, which connects the airport with central Tokyo. The plan aims to increase transport capacity by adding dual tracks on several segments currently using single tracks on the Keisei and East Japan Railway Co. (JR East) networks. With these additional tracks, trains will be able to pass each other. Through the construction of the new station and the addition of tracks, the number of limited express train trips per hour is expected to nearly double compared to current levels. Meanwhile, Narita International Airport Corp., Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, as well as railway operators and airlines, are discussing improvements to Narita Airport’s facilities, including the construction of a new terminal. The overall framework of the project is expected to be finalised soon.