The below statement is from Curtis Robinhold, Port of Portland Executive Director:

"One of the best ways we connect Portland to the world is through nonstop flights out of PDX. Our team is relentless in its commitment to provide access to global markets that will expand business opportunities and help people in this region explore new corners of the world.

Today, the U.S. Department of Transportation tentatively approved Delta’s route from PDX to Tokyo’s Haneda Airport. We are thrilled to be one step closer to offering travelers a more convenient nonstop flight to Tokyo from Portland. If Delta’s route from PDX to Haneda becomes official, travelers can say goodbye to 90-minute commutes into the city from Narita—and instead get to central Tokyo in less than 30 minutes.

This prospect builds on the nearly 30 years of Delta service from Portland to Japan. Demand for this route continues to grow. Since 2012, PDX has seen a 71% increase in passengers flying to Japan.

This region already enjoys many business, educational and cultural connections with Japan. A nonstop flight to Haneda will benefit the more than 140 Japanese firms that operate within 90 minutes of PDX. With Japan being Oregon’s largest overseas visitor market, the nonstop route will also better connect Japanese tourists to this incredible region." - Curtis Robinhold, Executive Director, Port of Portland