Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan will take place from April 13 through October 13, 2025, and is expected to significantly impact aviation traffic in the region. Kansai International Airport (RJBB) will serve as the primary international gateway, but business aviation operators should be aware of temporary restrictions and operational limitations during this high-traffic period.

RJBB overnight parking restrictions

Runway of Osaka International Airport

Effective April 12, 2025, 0001LCL through October 11, 2025, 2359LCL, the airport authority has imposed limits on general aviation operations at RJBB. During this time:

• Overnight stays are restricted to less than 48 hours
• All general aviation aircraft must reposition to an alternate airport after this period
• No PPR is required, but landing and slots are regulated

This restriction is being implemented to manage high-volume traffic during the six-month World Expo event.

Slot requirements and flexibility

RJBB requires arrival and departure slots for all general and commercial aviation flights—both domestic and international—24 hours a day, seven days a week. Slot tolerance is relatively generous, with slots valid from 00 to 59 minutes past the scheduled hour.

Despite parking constraints, RJBB is one of Japan’s more flexible airports when it comes to securing slots and accommodating short-notice changes. Operators can expect relatively quick turnarounds and streamlined operations with the support of an on-site ground handling team.

Landing permit requirements

Landing permits are required for the following types of operations:

• All experimental aircraft
• Private domestic flights
• Private aircraft registered in non-ICAO member states
• Non-tech stop charter flights
• Charter flights that are not for crew rest or crew change

Permits generally require lead time, so early planning is essential.

GA infrastructure and services

RJBB offers full-service support for business aviation, including:

• 24-hour operations, including customs, immigration, and quarantine (CIQ)
• A dedicated business jet gate where passengers and crew are typically processed and clear the airport in about 20 minutes
• A full Universal Aviation ground support team based onsite

Travel time from RJBB to downtown Osaka is approximately 50 minutes by car, with a distance of 38 miles (61 kilometers).

Recommended overnight parking alternates

Due to the 48-hour limit on GA stays at RJBB, operators must plan for repositioning. While several regional airports may be considered, we recommend the following primary alternates for overnight parking:

• Chubu Centrair International Airport (RJGG) – Located in Nagoya, RJGG is a full-service international airport with established general aviation infrastructure and overnight parking capability.
• Narita International Airport (RJAA) – Serving the Tokyo area, RJAA is a common choice for long-term GA parking in Japan and offers ample space and full ground handling support.

Final considerations

Hotel availability in Osaka is expected to be tight, especially during peak event periods, so securing crew accommodations early is strongly advised. Ground support, fuel uplift, and permit processing should also be coordinated well in advance.

RJBB will remain operational and GA-accessible throughout the Expo, but only for limited durations. With early coordination and the right repositioning strategy, business aviation operators can still maintain a smooth and efficient presence during one of Japan’s most high-profile international events.

For assistance with slot coordination, permits, or alternate parking arrangements, contact your Universal Aviation Japan team.