Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism revealed a final report on the future Narita International Airport. Narita is enhancing the airport functions by extending the current B Runway and building a new C Runway. The project aims to increase aircraft movements a year from 340,000 times today to 500,000 times, which are expected to increase capacities to 75 million passengers and 3 million tons in cargo handling.
This final report outlines a policy for the phased development of both physical infrastructure and operational systems, aimed at establishing Narita Airport’s position as a globally competitive East Asian hub. It serves as a crucial guideline for the formulation of the master plan, which will move into full swing from 2026 fiscal year or after.
Integrated one terminal
Narita will be upgraded from the multi-terminals system currently to the integrated one terminal system. Under "Step 1," scheduled for the 2030s, a new terminal will partially open, enabling integrated and flexible operations that also utilize the existing Terminals 1 through 3.
The new terminal is envisioned not merely as a transit point for air travelers, but as a space incorporating urban functions such as commercial facilities and offices. It will serve as a collaborative hub for "SORATO NRT Airport City"—a new urban zone concept involving the areas surrounding the airport—and provide high-quality spaces where inbound travelers can experience authentic local Japanese culture.
Additionally, to ensure world-class convenience for connecting passengers, the introduction of new mobility solutions—such as Automated People Mover (APM) systems—is being considered for connections between the new and existing terminals, as well as within the new terminal itself.
Also, the airport aims to streamline procedures and boost productivity through DX initiatives, including the expansion of "Face Express" facial recognition technology and the installation of self-service baggage drop units.
Railway access reform
One of the project pillars is to enhance railway accesses between the center of Tokyo and the airport to handle growing passenger demands. The current ideas include double-tracking the Narita Sky Access Line, JR Lines and Keisei Lines in particular areas.
In addition, Keisei will introduce a new express train, firstly from/to Oshiage Station in 2028 fiscal year and then direct service between Shinagawa Station and Narita Terminal 1 and 2 Stations in 2030s.
