A new report on global airport performance could change the way you plan your next visit to Osaka and the surrounding Kansai region. Aviation analytics firm Cirium released its much-anticipated 2025 On-Time Performance Rankings on February 9, 2026, revealing a significant reshuffle among Japan’s major airports. For international travelers, the most notable change is Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND), a primary gateway to Japan, dropping out of the global top 20.
This shift has direct implications for anyone traveling to Kansai, highlighting the growing importance of choosing the right entry point for a smooth and reliable journey.
The New Airport Landscape: A Look at the 2025 Rankings
The annual Cirium report is a critical benchmark for the aviation industry, measuring airports and airlines on their ability to stick to their schedules. The 2025 review, which analyzes flight data from the entire year, has sent ripples through Japan’s travel sector.
The headline news is the decline of Tokyo Haneda’s ranking. Previously a fixture in the top tier of punctual mega-airports, its slide is a sign of the operational pressures facing the world’s busiest air hubs. Factors such as a dramatic post-pandemic surge in passenger numbers and ongoing staffing challenges across the industry are believed to have contributed to this dip in performance.
In contrast, Kansai’s own airports have demonstrated remarkable stability. While the full detailed rankings show a competitive global field, both Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka International (Itami) Airport (ITM) are recognized for maintaining their strong operational integrity. This is particularly noteworthy for Itami Airport, which was crowned the world’s most punctual large airport in Cirium’s 2023 rankings with an impressive on-time departure rate of 91.45%. This legacy of efficiency positions Osaka’s airports as highly reliable alternatives.
Why This Matters for Your Kansai Travel Plans
For many travelers, a flight to Japan traditionally meant flying into Tokyo first and then taking a connecting flight or Shinkansen to Osaka. Haneda’s lower on-time performance rating suggests that this tried-and-true route now comes with a higher risk of delays and missed connections.
Reconsidering Your Gateway to Japan
This new data makes a strong case for flying directly into Kansai International Airport (KIX). As the primary international gateway to western Japan, KIX offers several advantages that are now more appealing than ever:
- Reduced Risk: Flying direct eliminates the uncertainty of a domestic transfer from a congested airport. You can start your Kansai adventure sooner and with less stress.
- 24-Hour Operations: KIX is one of the few airports in Japan that operates 24/7, providing greater flexibility for international flight schedules.
- Excellent Connectivity: Upon arrival at KIX, you have immediate access to a robust transportation network, including the JR Haruka express train to Osaka and Kyoto, limousine buses to major city centers, and a high-speed ferry to Kobe.
Planning for Punctuality
For those who must travel via Tokyo, this report serves as a crucial reminder:
- Allow for Buffer Time: Be sure to book connecting flights or trains with a generous layover. A 90-minute connection might have been feasible before, but a three-hour window is now a much safer bet.
- Stay Informed: Check your flight status frequently and be aware of potential delays.
The Future Outlook: A Tale of Two Regions
This shift in on-time performance could signal a longer-term trend. As Tokyo’s airports continue to manage immense passenger volumes, Kansai has an opportunity to solidify its position as a more efficient and traveler-friendly port of entry.
With the success of the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo still fresh, the region is poised to attract even more international visitors. The proven reliability of its airports will be a key asset in accommodating this growth. We may see airlines increasing their direct international routes to KIX in response to growing demand for more dependable travel options.
For travelers, the message is clear. When planning your trip to the vibrant heart of Kansai, looking beyond the traditional Tokyo entry point could be your ticket to a smoother, more predictable, and ultimately more enjoyable experience. The data shows that starting your journey at KIX is not just a matter of convenience—it’s a smart choice for reliable travel.
