American Airlines To Launch Nonstop Flights From Chicago to Tokyo

Image: Tokyo, Japan. (Photo Credit: tawatchai1990 / Adobe Stock)
Image: Tokyo, Japan. (Photo Credit: tawatchai1990 / Adobe Stock)
Jessica Puckett
by Jessica Puckett
Last updated: 10:45 AM ET, Thu July 2, 2026

Midwest travelers are getting a new link to one of Asia’s most vibrant capitals, thanks to American Airlines

The carrier just announced plans to launch nonstop flights to Tokyo from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) next spring. 

Starting March 27, 2027, American will begin operating daily, year-round flights from ORD to Tokyo’s Narita Airport (NRT).

The airline will use a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner plane to operate the new service. On board, passengers can expect 30 lie-flat seats in Flagship business class and 21 premium economy seats.

Upon landing in Tokyo, travelers will be able to connect to other destinations in Japan and throughout Asia with American’s partner Japan Airlines.

“We look forward to welcoming more visitors from Japan to experience all that Chicago has to offer and to sharing in the richness of Japanese culture, while offering Chicagoans a new direct connection to explore Japan firsthand,” said Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson.

The exciting new route will be American’s 11th long-haul flight from O’Hare and is part of a larger expansion the carrier is undertaking at the Chicago hub.

Over the last few years, American has grown its network from O’Hare to include more than 30 destinations, and it’s building a new 10,000-square-foot Admirals Club at ORD.

“This new service is a testament to our continued commitment to make our hub stronger, broaden choices for customers and keep Chicago competitive on the world stage,” said American’s CEO Robert Isom. “Coupled with our continued investments enhancing the customer experience from start to finish, American is incredibly excited for the future ahead.”

 


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