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Delta Air Lines · Route guide

Minneapolis (MSP) to Tokyo Narita (NRT) Flights with Delta

Everything you need to fly Origin to Destination: when to go, who flies it, what it costs, and how to land well.

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1 airline on this route · Daily Year-Round

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Airline

Delta

Aircraft

A350-900

Service

Daily Year-Round

Region

Asia-Pacific

The route

The direct connection between Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP) and Tokyo Narita (NRT) is a cornerstone of Delta's transpacific network. This route provides a seamless link for travelers from the U.S. Midwest to the heart of Japan, bypassing the need for connections on either coast.

Spanning approximately 5,950 miles, this nonstop service is operated daily by Delta Air Lines. The flight typically takes between 12 and 13 hours, making it one of the longest routes served out of the Minneapolis hub. It operates year-round, ensuring consistent connectivity for both business and leisure travel.

This route matters because it serves as the primary gateway to Asia for the northern United States. By utilizing Minneapolis as a hub, Delta connects dozens of smaller regional airports directly to Tokyo Narita, facilitating international commerce and tourism without the congestion of larger coastal hubs.
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Airports

Taking off, touching down.

Check-in, security, connections and getting into town at both ends of the flight.

Departure

Minneapolis-St. Paul International (MSP)

AIR
Check-in
Delta operates from Terminal 1; arrive at least 3 hours before departure for international document verification.
Security
Clear and TSA PreCheck lanes are available, but expect longer lines during peak morning departure banks.
Connections
MSP is a major Delta hub with easy light rail connections to the Mall of America and downtown.
Arrival

Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT)

MSP
On arrival
Complete the Visit Japan Web immigration and customs forms online before departure to use the QR code lanes.
Ground transport
The Narita Express (N'EX) and Keisei Skyliner provide the fastest rail links to central Tokyo districts.
Planning ahead
Currency exchange and SIM card kiosks are located immediately after the customs area in Terminal 1.
Timing & fares

When it flies, what it costs.

Schedule & reliability

Schedule
Flights generally depart MSP in the late morning and arrive at NRT in the mid-afternoon the following day.
Duration
Expect a flight time of approximately 12 hours 35 minutes heading west and slightly shorter heading east.
Seasonality
The route operates daily throughout the year with minor schedule shifts for Daylight Saving Time.
Time zones
Tokyo is 14 to 15 hours ahead of Minneapolis, so plan for significant jet lag upon arrival.

Fares & booking

Booking window
Optimal prices are typically found 4-6 months before departure for peak seasons.
Cabin advice
For a flight of this length, look for Global Upgrade Certificate opportunities if you have Delta Medallion status.
Peak pricing
Prices spike significantly during Golden Week (late April/early May) and the New Year period.
  • Book at least 90 days in advance to secure the most competitive transpacific fares.
  • Monitor SkyMiles redemption rates as Delta often offers flash sales on Japan routes.
  • Consider booking 'Delta Premium Select' for additional legroom on this 13-hour journey.

Peak season

Late March through early May and late December.

Shoulder season

June and September through November.

Off-peak season

January and February, excluding the Lunar New Year.

Tours and experiences at either end

Vetted day trips and activities in Destination and Origin, through our travel partner.

Browse tours
When to fly

Best Time to Fly Origin to Destination

  1. 01

    Spring (March - May)

    Peak season due to Cherry Blossom blooms; expect higher fares and larger crowds.

  2. 02

    Autumn (September - November)

    Mild weather and beautiful fall foliage make this an ideal time for sightseeing.

  3. 03

    Winter (January - February)

    Lowest demand period where you can often find the best deals on flights and hotels.

Trip planning

Who this route suits best.

Business Professionals

Direct access to one of the world's major financial hubs from the Midwest.

Leisure Explorers

The most efficient way to reach Japan without multiple domestic layovers.

Connecting Passengers

Utilizes NRT as a secondary hub for flights to Southeast Asia and beyond.

Connections & alternatives

Seoul (ICN)

Narita is a convenient transfer point for Delta and Korean Air flights across Asia.

Sapporo (CTS)

Easy domestic connections from NRT for travelers heading to the ski resorts of Hokkaido.

Bangkok (BKK)

A frequent onward destination for travelers utilizing Narita's regional flight network.

Field notes

Travel Tips for the Origin-Destination Route

Visa & entry

  • U.S. passport holders currently enjoy visa-free entry for tourism up to 90 days.
  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay.
  • Proof of return or onward travel may be requested by immigration officials.

Airport transfers

  • The Narita Express (N'EX) is best for Tokyo, Shinagawa, and Shinjuku stations.
  • Use the Keisei Skyliner for direct access to Ueno and eastern Tokyo.
  • Airport Limousine Buses are the most convenient option for travelers with heavy luggage heading to major hotels.

Baggage & transit

  • International flights to Japan on Delta typically include two free checked bags for Main Cabin passengers.
  • Keep a pen and your flight details handy for physical customs forms if you did not use the digital portal.
  • If connecting at NRT, follow the green 'International Transfers' signs for a security screen without entering the country.

Checklist

  • Physical or digital copy of your vaccination or entry QR codes
  • Universal power adapter for Japan (Type A/B plugs)
  • Pocket Wi-Fi or Japanese eSIM reserved for pickup
  • Japanese Yen for small shops and transportation cards like Suica
Carriers

Airlines Flying Origin to Destination

Delta

Daily year-round service

Operated primarily with the Airbus A350-900, offering Delta One, Premium Select, and Comfort Plus cabins.

FAQ

Common questions.

Straight answers about flying Origin to Destination.

Does Delta still fly direct from Minneapolis to Tokyo?

Yes, Delta operates a daily nonstop flight from Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP) to Tokyo Narita (NRT).

Which aircraft does Delta use for the MSP to Tokyo route?

Delta currently utilizes the Airbus A350-900, which features their latest cabin interiors and Delta One Suites.

How long is the flight from MSP to NRT?

The westbound flight to Tokyo usually lasts about 12 hours and 35 minutes, while the return flight is closer to 11 hours and 30 minutes.

What terminal does Delta use at Tokyo Narita?

Delta flights arrive and depart from Terminal 1 at Tokyo Narita International Airport.

Is meal service included on this Delta flight?

Yes, Delta provides full multi-course meal services, snacks, and complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages on this route.

Keep exploring

Where to next.

Structured data verified

Airports

Minneapolis (MSP)Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT)Minneapolis-St. Paul InternationalTokyo Narita International

Countries & layovers

United StatesJapanMinneapolis layover guide

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