Overview of Sendai Airport
Sendai Airport, also known as Sendai International Airport, is the main airport serving Sendai, a city located in the northeastern region of Japan. It is situated in Natori, Miyagi Prefecture, and serves as an important gateway to the Tohoku region.
The airport was originally built in 1957 but underwent a major renovation and expansion in 1998, resulting in the current facilities that are equipped with modern infrastructure and amenities. It has a single terminal building and two runways, capable of accommodating various types of aircraft.
Sendai Airport serves both domestic and international routes, with several airlines operating regular flights to major cities in Japan, such as Tokyo and Osaka, and destinations in other countries, including China, South Korea, and Taiwan. The airport also offers seasonal charter flights to popular tourist spots such as Guam and Saipan.
Passengers can enjoy a range of services and facilities at Sendai Airport, including restaurants, shops, lounges, and a duty-free store. There are also various transportation options available for travelers, including taxis, buses, and car rental services.
Overall, Sendai Airport provides a convenient and comfortable travel experience for passengers, with its modern facilities, efficient services, and strategic location in the Tohoku region of Japan.
Terminals at Sendai Airport
Sendai Airport has one main terminal building, which serves both domestic and international flights. The terminal was opened in 1994 and expanded in 2010 to accommodate the increasing number of passengers.
The terminal building is designed to reflect the natural surroundings of Sendai, with wooden beams and greenery throughout the building. The spacious and bright interior creates a relaxing atmosphere for travelers.
The check-in counters and security checkpoints are located on the first floor of the terminal, while the departure gates and shops and restaurants are on the second floor. The terminal also features a duty-free shop, souvenir shops, and restaurants serving local specialties.
For those who need to catch up on work or check their email, there is a business center on the second floor of the terminal. The center offers computer workstations and conference rooms for rent.
A free shuttle bus operates between the terminal building and the airport’s long-term parking lot. There is also a car rental center located just outside the terminal building.
Overall, Sendai Airport’s terminal building provides a comfortable and convenient experience for travelers. With its modern facilities and welcoming design, it is a great introduction to the beautiful city of Sendai.
Airlines and Destinations
The following airlines operate from Sendai Airport:
– All Nippon Airways (ANA)
– Japan Airlines (JAL)
– Skymark Airlines
– Peach Aviation
ANA and JAL offer domestic routes to major cities in Japan such as Tokyo, Osaka, Sapporo, and Okinawa. Skymark Airlines also offers domestic flights to Tokyo, while Peach Aviation operates flights to Osaka.
In terms of international routes, ANA operates flights to Seoul, Shanghai, Beijing, Taipei, Honolulu, and Bangkok. JAL offers flights to Seoul and Taipei, while Peach Aviation operates flights to Taipei as well. It’s worth noting that some of these routes may be seasonal and subject to change.
Overall, Sendai Airport provides convenient connections to both domestic and international destinations, making it a great choice for travelers visiting the northern part of Japan.
Transportation Options at Sendai Airport
Sendai International Airport is located approximately 15 kilometers south of Sendai City and is the largest airport in the Tohoku region of Japan. There are several transportation options available for travelers arriving at the airport.
One of the most convenient options is to take the airport shuttle bus, which runs between the airport and various locations in Sendai City. The shuttle bus operates every 20-30 minutes and takes approximately 25-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Tickets can be purchased at the airport or online in advance.
Another popular option is car rental, which can be a great way to explore the surrounding areas of Sendai. Several car rental companies have desks located inside the airport terminal, including Nippon Rent-A-Car, Toyota Rent-A-Lease, and Budget Rent A Car. Reservations can be made in advance online or by phone.
Travelers can also take the train from the airport to Sendai City. The Sendai Airport Access Line connects the airport to Sendai Station in approximately 25 minutes. Trains run every 10-30 minutes depending on the time of day and cost around 630 yen.
For those traveling beyond Sendai, there are several other train lines that can be accessed from Sendai Station, including the Tohoku Shinkansen (bullet train) and local JR lines.
In addition to these transportation options, there is a taxi stand located outside the airport terminal for those who prefer a more direct route to their destination. Taxis in Japan can be quite expensive, so this may not be the most cost-effective option.
Overall, there are several transportation options available for travelers arriving at Sendai International Airport, including shuttle buses, car rentals, trains, and taxis. Depending on your destination and budget, you can choose the option that best suits your needs.
Parking at Sendai Airport
Sendai Airport offers various parking options for travelers. The airport has three main parking lots: P1, P2, and P3. P1 is the closest to the terminal, making it the most convenient but also the most expensive. The parking rates for P1 are ¥300 yen for the first 30 minutes, ¥100 yen for every additional 15 minutes, and ¥3,000 yen for a day. P2 and P3 are cheaper but farther away from the terminal.
P2 is connected to the terminal via a covered walkway and is cheaper than P1. The parking rates for P2 are ¥300 yen for the first 30 minutes, ¥100 yen for every additional 15 minutes, and ¥1,800 yen for a day. P3 is an uncovered lot located farther from the terminal and is the cheapest option. The parking rates for P3 are ¥300 yen for the first 30 minutes, ¥100 yen for every additional 15 minutes, and ¥1,000 yen for a day.
In addition to these three lots, there is also a cell phone lot where drivers can wait for free while they wait for their arriving passengers. This lot is located about five minutes away from the terminal. Overall, Sendai Airport offers a range of parking options to cater to different needs and budgets.
Check-In Procedures
The check-in process at Sendai Airport is designed to be as quick and convenient as possible for passengers.
There are three methods available to choose from: online, self-service, and traditional check-in.
The online check-in option is available for passengers who have access to the internet and would like to avoid waiting in line at the airport.
This option allows travelers to check in and print their boarding pass from the comfort of their own home or office.
The self-service check-in machines are located in the departure hall of the airport.
Passengers can simply follow the prompts on the screen, scan their passport or boarding pass, and print their own boarding pass.
Finally, the traditional check-in counters are staffed by airport personnel who are available to assist passengers with any questions or concerns they may have.
Passengers can check their luggage and obtain their boarding pass at these counters.
Overall, the check-in process at Sendai Airport is well-organized and efficient.
Passengers are encouraged to use the online and self-service options whenever possible to save time and make their travel experience as smooth as possible.
Security Procedures and Tips
At Sendai Airport, travelers are required to go through security screening before boarding their flight. This process includes removing any metal items, liquids, and electronics from your carry-on bags.
To ensure a smooth security check, it is recommended to wear slip-on shoes, avoid wearing jewelry or belts with metal, and have all necessary documents and boarding passes readily accessible.
Additionally, it is important to follow all instructions given by security personnel and to be aware of any prohibited items that should not be packed in your luggage. By being prepared and following the procedures, you can have a stress-free experience at the security checkpoint.
Customs and Immigration Process at Sendai Airport
Upon arrival at Sendai Airport, passengers are required to proceed to immigration where they will present their passport or travel document. After the necessary checks have been completed, passengers will then proceed to customs where they may be required to declare any goods that they are bringing into the country.
For departing passengers, they must go through the same process but in reverse order. They will first proceed to customs where their luggage will be screened and cleared for departure. Next, they will proceed to immigration where their travel documents will be checked before they are allowed to board their flight.
It is important for all passengers to ensure that they have all the necessary travel documents and adhere to the customs regulations of Japan to avoid any inconvenience during their travel.
Amenities
– Restaurants and cafes offering a wide range of cuisine including Japanese, Western, and Asian
– Duty-free and souvenir shops selling locally made goods, cosmetics, and accessories
– Currency exchange service as well as ATMs for easy money exchange
– Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
– Prayer rooms and nursing rooms to cater to the needs of all travelers
– Smoking lounges available for smokers
– A variety of lounges offering various services including shower facilities, refreshments, and comfortable seating areas
– On-site car rental services provided by major car rental companies
– Baggage storage facilities and baggage wrapping services to facilitate stress-free travel
– Information desks manned by staff members who are ready to assist with any inquiries or concerns.
Accessibility Services
Sendai Airport provides a range of facilities and services to ensure that passengers with disabilities or mobility issues can travel comfortably.
These include wheelchair assistance, accessible toilets and parking spaces, and TDD public phones for the hearing-impaired.
Passengers can also request for assistance at the information counters located on each floor of the terminal building.
Connecting Flights at Sendai Airport
Connecting flights can be stressful, but with proper planning, it can be a breeze. At Sendai Airport, the process is straightforward.
If you have booked your connecting flight through the same airline, your luggage will be automatically transferred to your next flight. However, if you have booked separately, you’ll need to pick up your luggage and check it in again for your next flight.
Once you arrive at Sendai Airport, look for signs that direct you towards the connecting flight area. You’ll also find information desks and staff members who can provide assistance.
Make sure to check the departure time of your connecting flight and give yourself enough time to move between terminals if necessary. A general rule of thumb is to give yourself at least an hour and a half to two hours between connecting flights.
Finally, always keep track of your boarding pass and any other documents you may need for your next flight, such as a visa or travel insurance. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to catch your connecting flight without any hassle.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
When you arrive at Sendai Airport, proceed to the baggage claim area to collect your luggage. Look for screens displaying your flight number and arrival time to determine which carousel to wait by. Once you retrieve your luggage, exit the baggage claim area and proceed to the Arrivals level.
If you cannot find your luggage, immediately inform the airline staff at the baggage claim area. They will assist you with locating your luggage and filing a report if necessary. If your luggage was damaged during transportation, report it to the airline staff as well.
For lost property that is not luggage, such as passports, wallets, and electronic devices, contact the Lost and Found office located on the Arrivals level. Provide a detailed description of the lost item, and the staff will do their best to assist you in retrieving it.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency at Sendai Airport, there are trained medical professionals on standby. The airport also houses a well-equipped medical center that offers a variety of medical services to travelers.
The airport has automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) installed in various locations for immediate use in the case of cardiac arrest. In addition, there are trained staff members ready to perform first aid and provide assistance to passengers with special needs.
If necessary, passengers can be transported to nearby hospitals or clinics via ambulance. The airport also provides wheelchair and stretcher services upon request. Passengers are encouraged to notify airport staff of any medical concerns they have before boarding their flight.
Hotel Accommodations
There are several hotel accommodations available within and near Sendai Airport.
The closest hotel to the airport is Hotel Green Mark, which is only 10 minutes away by foot.
Other nearby hotels include Comfort Hotel Sendai East, which is only a 5-minute drive or 20-minute walk from the airport, and Hotel Route-Inn Sendai Taiwa Inter, which is a 10-minute drive away.
For a slightly more upscale option, the Daiwa Roynet Hotel Sendai is only a 15-minute drive from the airport, while the Hotel Grand Terrace Sendai Kokubuncho is a 20-minute drive away.
Useful Tips:
– Arrive early to avoid long lines at security and check-in.
– Check the airport’s website for information on parking, transportation, and flight schedules.
– Take advantage of the free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal.
– Grab a bite to eat at the airport’s restaurants and cafes before your flight.
– Shop for souvenirs, snacks, and reading material at the airport’s retail shops.
– Use the baggage storage service if you need to store your bags while exploring the city.
– Look for the airport’s massage chairs and relaxation areas to unwind before your flight.
Contact Information
– General Inquiry: +81-22-382-0088
– Lost and Found: +81-22-382-1477
– Baggage Inquiry: +81-22-382-1468
– Airport Police: +81-22-382-0110
– Medical Center: +81-22-382-1431
Please note that international flight inquiries should be directed to the airlines. For more information, please visit the Sendai Airport website or inquire at the airport information desk.
Airports Near Sendai Airport
Aside from Sendai Airport, there are other airports in the vicinity that may serve as alternative options for travelers. These include:
- Miyagi Airport – Located approximately 30 kilometers south of Sendai Airport, Miyagi Airport can be reached by taxi or bus. The ride takes about 40-50 minutes.
- Fukushima Airport – About 90 kilometers southwest of Sendai Airport, Fukushima Airport can be accessed by car or bus. The journey takes about 2 hours by car or 2.5 hours by bus.
- Iwate Hanamaki Airport – Located around 100 kilometers northwest of Sendai Airport, Iwate Hanamaki Airport can be reached by car, train, or bus. The travel time by car is around 1.5 hours, while the train ride takes approximately 2.5 hours, and the bus ride takes 3-4 hours.
Each airport offers its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider your individual travel needs when making a decision. Additionally, be sure to factor in the cost and time associated with reaching each airport before booking your flight.