Yakushima Airport
Located on the lush island of Yakushima in the Kumage District of Kagoshima Prefecture, Yakushima Airport (IATA: KUM, ICAO: RJFC) serves as a vital gateway for travelers visiting one of Japan's most ecologically diverse regions. Situated along the coast between the towns of Anbō and Miyanoura, the airport provides essential air connectivity to the mainland.
The airport operates at an elevation of 37 meters (121 feet) above mean sea level (AMSL), ensuring a coastal approach for aircraft arriving from various Japanese cities.
Key Facts
- Location: Yakushima, Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan.
- Operator: Kagoshima Prefecture.
- Runway: A single asphalt runway measuring 1,500 meters (4,921 feet).
- Primary Carriers: Japan Air Commuter and ANA.
- Operating Hours: Daily from 8:30 to 19:30.
- Future Development: Approved extension to 2,000 meters to accommodate jet aircraft.
History and Infrastructure Development
Yakushima Airport first opened its doors in 1963 with an initial runway length of 1,100 meters. To accommodate growing demand and larger aircraft, the runway underwent several expansions: it was extended to 1,200 meters in 1975 and further increased to 1,500 meters in 1976.
In 2004, the runway surface was hardened. This critical upgrade allowed the operation of DHC-8-400 aircraft, which are larger turboprop planes capable of carrying more passengers.
Looking toward the future, the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism announced in April 2024 that it has adopted a project to extend the runway to 2,000 meters. This expansion, which follows a master plan and environmental assessment initiated in 2023, is designed to allow jet aircraft to operate at the airport, significantly increasing its capacity and accessibility.
Facilities and Operations
The airport is designed for efficiency, featuring a single terminal building. The apron—the area where aircraft park, unload, and refuel—has parking capacity for two propeller aircraft. The facility maintains strict operational hours, welcoming flights daily between 8:30 and 19:30.
Airport Specifications and Traffic
The following table summarizes the technical specifications and the traffic statistics recorded in 2015.
| Category | Detail/Value |
|---|---|
| IATA / ICAO Codes | KUM / RJFC |
| Runway Surface | Asphalt |
| Runway Length | 1,500 m (4,921 ft) |
| Annual Passengers (2015) | 164,980 |
| Annual Cargo (2015) | 135 metric tonnes |
| Aircraft Movements (2015) | 4,752 |
Airlines and Destinations
Air travel to and from Yakushima is primarily handled by two major entities, providing links to key hubs in Japan.
- Japan Air Commuter: Offers flights to Fukuoka, Kagoshima, and Osaka–Itami.
- ANA (All Nippon Airways): Provides services to Fukuoka and Kagoshima.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the IATA and ICAO codes for Yakushima Airport?
The IATA code is KUM and the ICAO code is RJFC.
Which airlines fly into Yakushima Airport?
Japan Air Commuter and ANA operate flights to the airport.
Can jet aircraft currently land at Yakushima Airport?
Currently, the airport primarily handles propeller aircraft. However, a project to extend the runway to 2,000 meters has been adopted to allow jet aircraft to operate in the future.
What are the operating hours of the airport?
The airport is operational daily from 8:30 to 19:30.
Where is the airport located on the island?
It is located on the coast of Yakushima, situated between the towns of Anbō and Miyanoura.