Qantas to Increase Sapporo Flights for 2026 Northern Winter Season
Qantas will increase flights to Sapporo for the 2026 season, responding to strong demand for Japan travel from Australia.
Jishan Khan 
Qantas has announced plans to increase flights to Sapporo for the 2026 northern winter season, strengthening its presence in Japan and responding to sustained demand from Australian travellers. The expanded schedule reflects the airline’s confidence in leisure travel between Australia and key Japanese destinations.
Sapporo has emerged as a popular destination for Australian tourists, particularly during the northern winter months when demand for ski and snow holidays peaks. By adding more capacity on the route, Qantas aims to provide greater flexibility and improved connectivity for passengers travelling to Japan’s Hokkaido region.
The increased frequency is expected to operate during the peak seasonal period, supporting both inbound and outbound travel. Qantas has steadily rebuilt and expanded its Japan network as international travel demand has recovered, with Japan remaining one of its strongest-performing markets in North Asia.
Industry observers note that airlines are increasingly targeting seasonal leisure routes with strong yield potential. Sapporo’s popularity, combined with limited nonstop competition from Australia, makes it a strategically important destination within Qantas’ international portfolio.
The route expansion also aligns with broader trends in Australian outbound travel, with Japan consistently ranking among the most visited destinations. Improved air connectivity is expected to further stimulate tourism, benefiting both airlines and local economies.
Qantas’ decision to increase Sapporo flights underscores the carrier’s focus on optimising its international network through targeted growth rather than broad capacity expansion. Seasonal adjustments allow the airline to match supply with demand while maintaining operational efficiency.
As the 2026 season approaches, the additional Sapporo services are likely to be welcomed by travellers seeking direct access to Japan’s northern regions, reinforcing Qantas’ position as a leading carrier between Australia and Asia.
