OSAKA -- The operator of Kansai Airport on Friday reopened all areas of Terminal 1, which had been closed due to damage from the storm surge caused by Typhoon No. 21.
A total of 469 flights (128 domestic, 341 international) were scheduled, almost the same number of flights as during regular operation. Flight capacity has recovered to about the same level as before for the first time in 17 days after the disaster.
Flooding of an electric power facility underground on the north side of Terminal 1 had caused a blackout that was restored by Thursday. Repair work at a baggage claim area was also completed. Previously, Terminal 2 reopened on Sept. 7 and the south side of Terminal 1 reopened on Sept. 14.
The north side of the international departure lounge reopened Thursday afternoon. At about 5 a.m. Friday, passengers started forming lines in front of the airline counters to undergo boarding procedures. The first flight leaving the North Wing was operated by Hong Kong Airlines, departing at about 7 a.m.
Most of the 183 restaurants and shops in Terminal 1, which had been closed after the disaster, resumed operations the same day.
Restoration work continued in the area dealing with international cargo. About 90 percent (36 flights) of normal international cargo flights were scheduled to be operated Friday, indicating problems remain regarding logistics.
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