1. Flights Reservation and Purchase of Airline Tickets
Q. How to search for airticket.
A. Go to our flight search website. Also, our user guide page is useful.
Q. What is included in the fare?
A. The total amount displayed includes airfare, fuel surcharges, airport facility use fees, and various taxes as well as our ticketing fee.
Q. What is the difference between "Basic Economy" and "Economy"?
A. Depending on the fare type, the baggage allowance, seat selection availability and fees, conditions for reservation changes and cancellations, and mileage accumulation rates may vary. Please be sure to check the detailed regulations of each fare type at the time of booking.
Q. The desired airline did not come up.
A. There may be airlines not handled on our website, or there may be no flights available for your specified itinerary, or they may be fully booked.
Q. Do I have enough time for flight connection?
A. The connecting flights displayed on this site are combinations that meet the minimum connecting time (MCT) set by each airline. However, if you need to go through immigration or re-check in your luggage, we recommend planning an itinerary with extra time.
Q. Can I secure (hold) the payment without confirming the reservation?
A. We apologize, but online bookings cannot hold reservations (pre-reserve). Your reservation will be confirmed once payment is completed.
Q. What are the air fares for children and toddlers?
A. Children under 2 years old (without a seat) and children aged 2 to under 12 may be subject to different discounted fares than adults. Please select an age and search. Important: Reservations including an infant and/or a child who will turn two years old and twelve years old during the trip cannot be processed online. Please contact our Customer Support directly to complete your booking.
Q. What are the payment options?
A. We accept all major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.
Q. Is my credit card information managed securely?
A. Yes. Your personal information and credit card details are protected by SSL encryption technology and will be transmitted securely.
Q. Can I pay using a credit card that is not in my name?
A. Yes, you may use a credit card in a different name. However, please ensure you have the cardholder's consent for the transaction. For fraud prevention purposes, we reserve the right to contact the cardholder for verification at a later date.
Q. When will my reservation be confirmed?
A. Your booking will be confirmed only once ticketing has been completed. Until that time, the reservation status and fare are subject to change. Thank you for your understanding.
Q. I have not yet received the booking confirmation email.
A. Please first check your spam or junk folder. If you still cannot locate the email, please have your reservation number ready and contact our customer support.
Q. What is an e-ticket?
A. An e-ticket is the digital record of your flight information electronically stored in the airline's system. For your travel, please ensure you have a copy of the 'E-Ticket Itinerary Receipt' we send you, either printed out or available for display on your smartphone or other device.
Q. Can I book an itinerary with multiple destinations (an open-jaw itinerary)?
A. Yes, you can. By selecting 'Multiple Destinations,' you can search and book itineraries with up to three segments at one time.
Q. Can I purchase a one-way ticket?
A. Please ensure you check all entry requirements before purchasing your ticket. Please understand that we do not possess information regarding entry requirements or visa conditions and therefore cannot be held responsible for issues related to them.
Q. Do you have a list of major airlines?
A. You can check the major airlines flying between the U.S. and Japan on our website.
https://www.jtbusa.com/tour/Airlineinfo/Home.aspx
Q. What is Basic Economy?
A. While rules differ among airlines, Basic Economy is typically highly restrictive in exchange for a lower fare. Common limitations include: no changes or cancellations, no complimentary advance seat assignments, and reduced checked baggage allowances.
Q. How can I input my last name with suffix?
A. Please include the suffix in the last name section after your last name. In case you have "-", "()" or any other special characters in your name, please exclude them and enter ONLY alphabets.
Examples: Last name and suffix>> SMITH JR, 2 last names like Smith-Lopez>> SMITH LOPEZ
Q. I am receiving an error message and cannot proceed with my booking.
A. Kindly use only alphanumeric characters for input. Errors can be caused by using symbols or full-width characters, incorrect mileage numbers, or an incorrect Known Traveler Number. Another possibility is that the ticket availability or price has changed. We apologize for the inconvenience; please reach out to our customer support for assistance.
Q. Can I book a flight for someone else?
A. Yes, you can. However, you must accurately enter the passenger's information, including their full legal name (as it appears on their passport/ID), date of birth, and gender.Please note: Once the booking is complete, it is generally not possible to change or transfer the reservation details. This means major corrections to the name or transferring the ticket to a different person are typically prohibited by the airline.
Q. We're thinking to travel with a big group.
A. When you are traveling a group of more than 10 people, please contact our customer support, because you cannot book flights online.
2. The Changes and Cancellations of Airline Ticket Reservations
Q. Can I change my reservation?
A. This is subject to the Fare Rules of the ticket you purchased. Please note that some tickets are non-changeable. Even if changes are permitted, both the airline's change fee and our agency's handling fee will apply.
Q. Can I cancel my reservation?
A. This depends on the Fare Rules of the ticket you purchased. Please note that most discounted fares are non-refundable. Should a cancellation be permitted, both the airline's cancellation penalty and our agency's handling fee will apply.
Q. How do I process a change or cancellation request?
A. Please contact our Customer Support team by phone.
https://www.jtbusa.com/reservations/flight-terms-conditions.aspx
Q. How much are the change and cancellation fees?
A. The total fee comprises two components: (1) the change/cancellation penalty set by the airline, and (2) our agency's administrative handling fee. The exact amount varies based on the fare rules of your ticket, so please contact us to confirm the fee each time.
https://www.jtbusa.com/reservations/flight-terms-conditions.aspx
Q. I mistakenly entered the wrong name for a passenger. Can this be corrected?
A. As a general rule, even minor spelling corrections on airline tickets are not permitted. In most cases, the ticket must be canceled and rebooked. For this reason, please ensure that the entered name exactly matches the spelling on your passport.
https://www.jtbusa.com/reservations/flight-terms-conditions.aspx
Q. The airline has changed/canceled the flight schedule. What happens now?
A. Should the airline initiate a schedule change (e.g., time adjustment or flight cancellation) about 5 days prior to your flight departure date, JTB USA and/or the airlines will notify you via email. We will then provide you with the available options, which include changing to an alternative flight offered by the airline or requesting a full refund.
Please note that we can only notify changes during our business hours. For last-minute (urgent) flight changes and flight cancels close to departure, we may not be able to assist in time. In such cases, we kindly ask that you contact the airline directly.
https://www.jtbusa.com/reservations/flight-terms-conditions.aspx
Q. How long does it take to get a refund?
A. Once the process is complete, the refund will be issued via your credit card company. This typically takes 1 to 2 billing cycles (approximately 1 to 2 months), but please note that the exact time may be longer depending on the processing status of the airline.
Q. What is Future Flight Credit?
A. This credit is essentially a voucher that represents the value of your cancelled ticket, which can be applied toward a future flight purchase. Please be aware that the terms of use and expiration dates vary by airline.
Q. I would like to use my flight credit to book a new airline ticket.
A. To use flight credit for tickets purchased through our company, you must complete the process with us. Please contact our customer support.
Please note: We cannot process flight credits for tickets purchased by the customer directly or through another travel agency. In such cases, please contact the original issuing agency.
3. Seat Assign and in-Flight Services
Q. Can I assign a seat?
A. If you wish to check seat availability in advance or request a specific seat, please provide details of the ticket you wish to purchase via email or phone before purchasing. However, please note that depending on the type of ticket you request and seat availability, advance seat selection may not be available. Unfortunately, after purchasing your ticket online, seat selection is automatic and cannot be requested. (Only available for tickets that allow seat selection)
Q. I would like to reserve a paid seat (such as seat with extra legroom.)
A. Customers who purchase tickets online may directly purchase ancillary services (such as seating or baggage) via the airline's website after booking. (Some restrictions may apply depending on the operating carrier or the type of ticket purchased.) If you wish for us to handle the arrangement on your behalf, a handling fee of $20 per ticket will apply.
Q. Could you please seat me next to my family or friends?
A. For customers who purchase airline tickets online, seat selection can be made on the airline’s website after the reservation is completed.
(Please note that conditions may vary depending on the operating carrier or the type of ticket purchased.)
If there are no available seats for advance selection, please consult the airline directly at check-in or at the airport counter on the day of departure.
For customers who purchase tickets via email or phone, please inform us of your seat preference before completing the purchase.
We will check the availability in advance; however, please understand that we cannot guarantee the seat until the ticket is issued.
Q. What happens if I don't select a seat?
A. If you do not select a seat in advance, one will be automatically assigned to you at check-in based on availability.
Please note that if the flight is nearly full, even if you are traveling as a group, there is a possibility that your seats may be assigned separately.
Q. Can I request a special meal (such as a vegetarian meal)?
A. Special meal requests are generally available on long-haul international flights. Please be aware that the meal content varies depending on the airline and class, and we may not be able to accommodate all requests. If you wish to make a request, please contact the airlines directly or our customer support.
https://www.jtbusa.com/tour/Airlineinfo/Meals.aspx
Q. Can I request a wheelchair or mobility assistance?
A. Yes, wheelchair service at the airport is available.
Please inform us of the type of assistance you require either at the time of booking or no later than one week prior to departure.
Q. Do you have a bassinet available for infants?
A. Bassinets are available on large aircraft used for international flights, but the number of bassinets is limited and they can only be installed in specific seats.
If you would like to request one, please contact us as soon as your reservation is complete.
https://www.jtbusa.com/tour/Airlineinfo/Infants.aspx
Q. Is in-flight Wi-Fi available?
A. Many airlines offer paid Wi-Fi services. Availability and pricing vary depending on the airline and the aircraft.
4. Baggage
Q. How many checked bags can I bring for free?
A. It varies significantly depending on the airline, route (domestic or international), fare type, and mileage status.
https://www.jtbusa.com/tour/Airlineinfo/Baggage.aspx
Q. How much is the fee for additional checked baggage?
A. If you pay in advance through the airline’s website, it may be cheaper than paying at the airport. Fees vary by airline, so please check each airline’s policy for details.
Q. Can you tell me the rules for carry-on baggage?
A. Generally, you are allowed one personal item and one carry-on bag. Size and weight restrictions vary by airline, so please check with the airline in advance.
Q. Are there any restrictions on carrying liquids on board?
A. Yes. Please place liquids in containers of 100ml (3.4 ounces) or less, and put them all together in a clear, resealable plastic bag of no more than 1 liter. Each passenger is allowed one bag.
Q. Can lithium-ion batteries (such as mobile power banks) be checked in?
A. No. Lithium-ion batteries pose a fire risk and are strictly prohibited in checked baggage. Please make sure to carry them in your cabin baggage.
Q. Can sports equipment (such as golf bags, skis) and musical instruments be checked in?
A. Yes, they can be checked in as special baggage. Since there may be additional fees and packaging requirements, it’s necessary to check with and contact the airline in advance.
Q. My checked baggage was lost or damaged. What should I do?
A. Please report it immediately to the airline's baggage service counter located in the baggage claim area at your final destination airport. You will need to have a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) issued on the spot.
5. Check-in and Boarding Procedures
Q. When does online check-in become available?
A. Usually, online check-in is available from 24 hours before departure. Some airlines may allow it from 48 hours before.
Q. What are the benefits of online check-in?
A. You can issue your boarding pass in advance and check or change your seat. If you don’t have any checked baggage, you can go directly to the security checkpoint, saving time at the airport.
Q. What do I need for check-in?
A. International Flights: Passport, e-ticket itinerary receipt, and if required, a visa or electronic travel authorization.
Domestic Flights within the U.S.: One of the following: passport, U.S. driver’s license, or a photo ID compliant with the REAL ID Act.
Q. How many hours before departure should I arrive at the airport?
A. International Flights: It is strongly recommended to arrive at the airport 3 hours before departure.
Domestic Flights within the U.S.: It is strongly recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before departure.
Please allow extra time during holidays and peak travel seasons.
Q. Do I need to print my boarding pass?
A. You can use a mobile boarding pass displayed on your smartphone. However, to prepare for any technical issues, it’s recommended to either print it out or save a screenshot.
Q. If I have a connecting flight, will my baggage be transported to the final destination?
A. International flight connections within the U.S. or Japan: After arriving in the U.S., all passengers must go through immigration at the first airport, retrieve their checked baggage, undergo customs inspection, and then recheck their baggage.
Other international connections: In many cases, baggage is transported directly to the final destination (through check-in).
Q. What is TSA PreCheck / Global Entry?
A. It is a U.S. pre-screening program. TSA PreCheck speeds up security screening within the U.S., while Global Entry automates immigration procedures when entering the U.S. If you have a Known Traveler Number, please enter it when making a reservation.
Q. What happens if I miss my flight?
A. Please consult the airline counter at the airport immediately. If seats are available, you may be able to board a later flight by paying a fee, but this is not guaranteed. (This depends on the airline’s own policies, such as the "Flat Tire Rule.")
6. Passport, Visa, and Immigration-Related Matters
Q. How long does my passport need to be valid?
A. Entry requirements vary depending on the destination country. Generally, Japanese nationals need a passport that is valid through the date of return when entering the United States. Many countries require a passport to have at least six months of validity remaining at the time of entry, so please be sure to check in advance.
Q. Do I need a visa?
A. It depends on the purpose of travel, length of stay, and nationality. It is the traveler’s responsibility to check with the embassy or consulate of the destination country in the U.S. to determine whether a visa is required.
Q. What is ESTA?
A. It refers to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). If you are traveling to the United States with a Japanese passport for tourism or short-term business purposes and staying for less than 90 days, you are required to apply for and receive authorization.
Q. By when should I apply for ESTA?
A. It is recommended to apply at least 72 hours before departure. Since authorization may be denied, we strongly advise applying as early as possible.
Q. Can someone apply for ESTA on my behalf?
A. We do not offer application services for ESTA. Please make sure to apply yourself through the official website. Be cautious of fake third-party websites.
Q. I am a permanent resident (Green Card holder); what do I need for travel?
A. You will need a valid permanent resident card and passport. Depending on your destination, a visa may also be required, so we recommend checking directly with the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit.
Q. I have dual citizenship. Which passport should I use?
A. As a general rule, when entering or leaving a country, you must use that country’s passport. For example,
a dual citizen of Japan and the United States should use their U.S. passport when departing the U.S., and their Japanese passport when entering Japan.
Q. I’m traveling to Japan. Is registration with 'Visit Japan Web' required?
A. It is not mandatory. However, we recommend registering in advance to ensure smooth immigration and customs procedures at Japanese airports.
Q. Do I need a visa or electronic authorization even just for a transit?
A. Yes. Depending on the country, a transit visa or electronic authorization may be required even if you are only transiting and do not leave the international area of the airport. Please make sure to check in advance.
7. Traveling with Children and Special Assistance
Q. Can an infant (under 2 years old) fly without a seat?
A. Yes, infants may sit on an adult’s lap (lap infant). However, an infant ticket is still required. For safety reasons, it is also possible to purchase a separate seat for the infant and use a child safety seat.
https://www.jtbusa.com/tour/Airlineinfo/Infants.aspx
Q. Can children travel alone (unaccompanied minor service)?
A. Yes, many airlines offer an "Unaccompanied Minor Service" for children traveling alone. Age requirements, fees, and conditions vary by airline, so please be sure to check in advance. This service cannot be booked online, so please contact our customer support.
https://www.jtbusa.com/tour/Airlineinfo/Children.aspx
Q. Can strollers and child car seats be checked in?
A. Yes, most airlines allow you to check strollers and child car seats free of charge. You can use them up to the boarding gate and hand them over to airline staff there.
Q. I’m pregnant. Can I fly on an airplane?
A. Policies vary by airline, but many require a medical certificate for travel during late pregnancy (such as after 36 weeks). Stricter rules may apply for international flights or if there are complications. Please check with your airline in advance.
Q. Can I travel with my pet?
A. Depending on the airline, route, and the type and size of your pet, it may be possible to travel with your pet either in the cabin or as cargo. However, this is not guaranteed. Please be sure to inquire in advance. For each airline’s regulations, please refer to the following link:
https://www.jtbusa.com/tour/Airlineinfo/Pets.aspx
8. Frequent Flyer Programs
Q. How can I earn miles?
A. When making a reservation, please enter your frequent flyer program membership number for your airline or its partner airline.
https://www.jtbusa.com/tour/Airlineinfo/Mileage.aspx
Q. Can I register my mileage number after making a reservation?
A. Yes, it is possible. You can register it through the airline’s website on the reservation management page, or present it at the counter during check-in.
Q. Is it possible to claim miles after the flight?
A. Yes. If miles are not credited after your flight, you may be able to retroactively register them according to the airline’s policy. We recommend keeping your boarding pass stub and e-ticket receipt until the mileage credit is confirmed.
Q. Can I use miles to book airline tickets on the JTB USA website?
A. We’re sorry, but award ticket reservations using miles must be made directly through the airline’s website or call center.
Q. Can I earn miles even on flights operated by different airlines?
A. If the airlines belong to the same alliance (such as Star Alliance, Oneworld, or SkyTeam), you may be able to earn miles using your partner program membership number.
9. JTB USA and Our website
Q. What are the advantages of booking through JTB USA instead of the airline’s official website?
A. The greatest advantage is our ability to provide bilingual support in both Japanese and English. In the event of unexpected situations such as flight cancellations or delays, we assist by negotiating with the airline and searching for alternative options on behalf of the customer. With our extensive knowledge of travel between Japan and the U.S., we offer comprehensive support for your journey.
Q. Does JTB USA charge a handling or service fee?
A. For online bookings, phone reservations, and any changes or cancellations after booking, a handling fee from our company will apply in addition to the airline’s standard fees.
Q. Please tell me the customer support business hours.
A. Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (ET) / 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM (PT)
Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.
Q. An error appears on the website.
A. Please try clearing your browser cache or using a different browser (such as Chrome or Firefox). If the issue still persists, we kindly ask that you contact our customer support.
Q. Can I also book hotels and tours besides airline tickets?
A. Yes, at JTB USA, we can arrange all aspects of your trip, including hotels, rental cars, rail passes (such as the Japan Rail Pass), and local tours. Please visit the dedicated pages on our website or feel free to contact us for assistance.
Q. Do you have physical branch offices or in-person service counters?
A. Unfortunately, we currently do not have physical service counters. Please contact us by phone or email.