Japanese carriers have warned their flight schedules could be severely disrupted at the weekend by the onset of Typhoon Hagibis.
Hagibis is due to make landfall south of Tokyo on Saturday, bringing 120mph to 170mph winds, before tracking up Japan’s eastern coast.
The storm has already put pay to several Rugby World Cup matches, while Sunday’s Japanese Grand Prix is also in doubt.
Reuters on Friday (11 October) reported Japan Airlines was preparing to cancel more than 90% of its domestic flights at Haneda and Narita on Saturday (12 October).
The carrier though has warned the impact could yet extend to other airports across Japan, depending on the course taken by Hagibis.
All Nippon Airlines, meanwhile, has confirmed cancellations at both Haneda and Narita airports.
Besides affecting rugby and F1 fans, the cancellations are likely to prevent a number of Abta Travel Convention delegates getting home.
The event concluded on Wednesday (9 October), but many delegates have extended their stays to see more of the country.
The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice to reflect Hagibis’s progress towards the Japanese mainland.
“Due to Typhoon Hagibis, there will be severe disruption to transport services over the weekend of 12-13 October,” said the FCO.
“Expect delays and cancellations on all domestic flights and some international flights from Haneda, Narita and Kansai airports.
“Local public transport in the Greater Tokyo area, including the Shinkansen [bullet train], will also be affected.
“If you are concerned about your travel arrangements please contact your travel provider or agent directly.
“You should check Japan Meteorological Agency’s website, NHK news and Japan National Tourism Organisation regularly for updates and follow instructions from local authorities.”