About NU
NU is a regional Japanese carrier — and when I say regional, I mean it's really doing the work of connecting Japan's southwestern island chain to the rest of the country. Its main hub is Okinawa (OKA), which alone accounts for 13 of its 36 non-stop routes. The whole network stretches across 15 airports and covers just under 24,000 km total. Practically all of that is domestic Japan, with one international route into Taiwan rounding things out. This isn't a carrier trying to take on the world — it's focused, it knows its lane, and honestly that's kind of refreshing.
Why fly NU?
If you're heading to the Ryukyu Islands — Okinawa, Miyakojima (MMY), Ishigaki (ISG) — NU might literally be your best or only direct option on certain routes. That's the honest answer. When an airline runs 13 routes out of OKA alone, it's not competing on glamour, it's competing on access. You're getting to places that bigger carriers don't prioritize. The ISG-KIX route, for example, is the longest in NU's network at 1,541 km — that's island-to-mainland connectivity that matters for both locals and travelers who want to skip a layover in Tokyo entirely. If island-hopping southwest Japan is your plan, NU's route map is built almost exactly around that.
NU hub airports
- OKA Okinawa — 13 NU routes from Japan
- MMY Miyakojima — 4 NU routes from Japan
- ISG Ishigaki — 4 NU routes from Japan
- KIX Osaka — 3 NU routes from Japan
- OGN Yonaguni — 2 NU routes from Japan
Top destination countries on NU
Tips for booking NU
Book directly if you're routing through OKA — it's the strongest part of the network and you'll have the most schedule options. Connections through smaller hubs like MMY or ISG mean fewer daily frequencies, so don't cut your layover time close. Since NU is a regional carrier, don't expect the same baggage allowances or fare flexibility you'd get on a full-service mainline airline — check the fine print before assuming anything. If you're combining this with a bigger Japan trip, look at whether your other flights can be timed around NU's schedule rather than the other way around. It'll save you a headache.
Frequently asked questions about NU
Where does NU (NU) fly?
NU operates 36 routes primarily connecting Japan and Taiwan, with a focus on regional travel across East Asia. The airline serves major cities and popular destinations throughout these two countries.
What is NU's main hub airport?
NU's main hub is Okinawa International Airport (OKA), which serves as the primary connection point for the airline's network.
Is NU a legacy carrier, low-cost carrier, or regional airline?
Based on its network structure with 36 routes and a focused hub in Okinawa, NU operates as a regional carrier serving East Asian markets. The airline emphasizes point-to-point and hub-based connectivity rather than global long-haul operations.
When should I book NU flights and what fare classes are available?
For the best fares on NU, book in advance during off-peak periods, typically 4-8 weeks before travel. NU typically offers multiple fare classes ranging from basic economy to premium options; check the airline's website for current pricing and restrictions.
What are NU's baggage allowance and check-in policies?
Baggage allowances and check-in procedures vary by fare class and route; passengers should verify their specific allowances when booking or on NU's official website. Standard check-in is typically available 2-3 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.