Travelers heading from Osaka to Hokkaido are facing significant disruptions today, February 19, 2026, as heavy snowfall in northern Japan has forced the cancellation of multiple flights. Services from Kansai International Airport (KIX) to Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport (CTS) have been particularly affected, impacting hundreds of passengers and their itineraries.
The Situation at Kansai Airport
Airlines have grounded a series of flights on the popular KIX-CTS route, one of Japan’s busiest domestic air corridors connecting the vibrant Kansai region with the winter wonderland of Hokkaido. The cancellations are a direct result of adverse weather conditions, including heavy snow and low visibility, making landings and take-offs at New Chitose Airport unsafe.
Airlines Affected
Major carriers operating out of KIX have announced cancellations. This includes:
- Japan Airlines (JAL) and its codeshare partners.
- Peach Aviation, a low-cost carrier with a major hub at KIX.
Passengers booked with these and other airlines are strongly urged to verify their flight status directly via the airline’s official website or app before traveling to Kansai Airport.
Why Sapporo’s Weather Grounds Flights: A Deeper Look
While New Chitose Airport is renowned for its state-of-the-art snow removal capabilities, the sheer volume and intensity of snowfall in Hokkaido can sometimes overwhelm even the most efficient operations. The region is frequently hit by powerful cold fronts from Siberia, which pick up moisture over the Sea of Japan and dump vast amounts of “Japow” (Japanese powder snow) on the island.
During peak winter months like February, it is not uncommon for weather events to cause dozens of flight cancellations in a single day. These disruptions are necessary to ensure passenger safety, which remains the top priority for all airlines.
Immediate Impact and What to Expect
The ripple effects of these cancellations are already being felt. Travelers are now faced with the challenge of rebooking their trips, which can be difficult as subsequent flights fill up quickly with displaced passengers.
What You Should Do Now
- Check Your Flight Status: Do not head to KIX without first confirming that your flight is still scheduled to depart.
- Contact Your Airline: If your flight is cancelled, contact your airline immediately to understand your options for a refund or rebooking on a future flight. Be prepared for long wait times on customer service lines.
- Review Your Plans: You may need to adjust hotel reservations, tour bookings, and other travel arrangements in Sapporo. Contact your providers to explain the situation.
- Consider Your Travel Insurance: If you have travel insurance, check your policy to see if you are covered for weather-related cancellations and associated costs.
Future Outlook: Lingering Disruptions Possible
Even after the weather in Sapporo improves, travelers should be prepared for potential knock-on effects. Airlines will face logistical challenges in repositioning aircraft and crew, which could lead to further delays or schedule changes over the next 24 to 48 hours.
This event serves as a critical reminder for anyone planning a winter trip to Hokkaido from the Kansai region. The beauty of Hokkaido’s winter comes with the inherent risk of weather-related travel disruptions. Building flexibility into your travel schedule and having a contingency plan is always a wise strategy. Osakaa will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates for travelers in the Kansai region.
