Hong Kong Airlines has suspended all flights to southern Japan for July and August 2025, citing a sharp drop in passenger demand triggered by a widespread—but unfounded—rumor about a major earthquake and tsunami expected this summer.
The airline has officially canceled its routes to Kagoshima and Kumamoto, two popular tourist destinations in southern Japan. This decision follows weeks of speculation in Hong Kong that a devastating natural disaster is imminent in Japan—claims that have no scientific basis, according to Japanese officials.
In fact, flights to these destinations had only recently resumed in 2024 after a four-year hiatus. By December, Hong Kong Airlines had even increased service from three to four round trips a week due to high demand. However, starting this spring, the rumor led to noticeable declines in bookings and seat occupancy, eventually prompting the airline to pull the plug on summer operations.
The Kagoshima Prefectural Office in Hong Kong is now urging the airline—and others—to restart the suspended routes as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) is asking travelers to rely on scientifically backed information from official sources, rather than fear-based rumors.
FAQs
Q1: Is it true that a major earthquake will hit Japan this summer?
A: No. The rumor of a major earthquake and tsunami in Japan this summer is completely unfounded and has no scientific evidence. Japanese authorities and the JNTO have confirmed this and urge travelers to base decisions on verified information from official agencies.
Q2: Are other airlines also suspending flights to Japan?
A: So far, Hong Kong Airlines is the most notable airline to cancel flights due to the rumor. However, the general decline in travel demand might affect other carriers. Local officials are encouraging airlines to resume operations, assuring safety and accurate information.
