Narita Airport has announced that landing fees for airlines are to be reduced from the end of April. The average reduction among all aircraft types at the airport is to be 5.5%. The airport has long been criticized for its comparatively high landing fees.

The largest decrease will be enjoyed by the newest and quietest aircraft. The Boeing 777-200 will be the recipient of the largest rate cut, dropping by around half from 455,000 yen to 214,000 yen per landing, TBS reported.

Under the airport's current fee system, airlines pay 1,650 yen ($20.60) to 2,100 yen ($26.27) per tonnage according to noise index. Narita has announced those rates will now be reduced by 100 yen ($1.25) for each category.

Apart from a temporary reduction during the 2008 financial crisis, this is the first time the airport has reduced its charges since 2005, according to The Yomiuri Shimbun.

Some analysts are saying the cut is likely to be in response to Tokyo Haneda Airport's growing stature as an international hub and its increasing ability to compete. Along with a growing reputation for handling international flights, Haneda also has the advantage of being closer to the center of Tokyo.

An ANA spokesperson said that the reduction was "a good move", but that Narita remained a more expensive airport than others in the region.

Industry analysts are now speculating that ticket prices for consumers may drop in reaction to the announcement.

© Japan Today