TOKYO — Tokyo's Narita International Airport (NRT) has officially commenced construction of its ambitious third runway project, marking a pivotal moment in Japan's aviation infrastructure development.

The groundbreaking ceremony took place on May 25, 2025, marking the launch of what airport officials describe as the most significant expansion in the facility's history.

Airport President Akihiko Tamura emphasized the urgency of strengthening Japan's international competitiveness through enhanced aviation capacity. This massive undertaking represents Japan's commitment to accommodating the unprecedented surge in international tourism that has transformed the nation's economic landscape.

Capital Investment Unveiled

The ¥670 billion ($4.5 billion) expansion project will dramatically increase Narita's operational capacity from 300,000 to 500,000 annual aircraft movements by March 2029. The centerpiece is a new 3,500-meter runway that will complement the existing infrastructure alongside a 1,000-meter extension of the shorter 2,500-meter Runway 16L/34R.

Combined with Tokyo Haneda Airport's (HND) capacity, the two primary gateways serving Japan's capital will handle one million annual flights. The airport's physical footprint will nearly double, expanding by 1,099 hectares, though land acquisition remains a challenge, with only 83% of the required property secured.

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Third Runway Location

To get our bearings correct, Runway A is 16R/34L and Runway B is 16L/34R. With regard to the location of the new Runway C, NRT says runway system "will be extended northward so that the missed approach area of Runway B will not overlap Runway C. Also, NRT "will make adjustments so that the layout plan conforms to the plans for construction of Metropolitan Inter-City Expressway (Ken-ou-do)."

According to NRT, it is necessary to expand the airport site by 1,000ha in order to make available "the 500,000 annual aircraft movement per year."

Tourism Boom Drives Infrastructure Growth

Japan's tourism renaissance has created both opportunities and operational pressures across the country's aviation network. The nation welcomed 14.4 million visitors in the first four months of 2025 alone, representing a 24.5% increase from the previous year. Government projections target 60 million annual tourists by 2030, nearly doubling current levels and placing enormous strain on existing airport infrastructure. 

Popular destinations like Kyoto are already experiencing swelling tourist numbers, highlighting the critical need for expanded aviation capacity. The timing of Narita's expansion aligns perfectly with global aviation trends, as the Asia-Pacific region leads worldwide growth in air travel demand. Industry forecasts predict global air travel will double within the next two decades, with Asian markets driving much of this expansion.

Narita's strategic position as a major international hub makes this capacity increase essential for maintaining Japan's competitive edge in the global tourism market. The project represents more than infrastructure development—it's an investment in Japan's economic future and regional connectivity throughout Asia.