Society

Economic impact feared after airport closure

Sep 05 (NHK) - Typhoon Jebi forced Kansai airport to shut down on Tuesday. Concerns are mounting that if the closure continues, it could have a significant economic impact.

The airport is a major hub for both travelers and cargo. It connects Japan with at least 80 cities worldwide.

Its operator says an average day in the last fiscal year that ended in March saw about 460 passenger flights land and take off there. That's more than 78,000 domestic and international passengers per day.

The number for fiscal 2017 hit a record high, up 12 percent year-on-year to more than 28 million.

This comes as the Kinki region, including Kyoto, is attracting a growing number of foreign tourists.

A low-cost carrier that flies to destinations in Thailand and Hawaii has expressed concerns. AirAsia Group officials say it's unclear when the airport will open again.

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