JAL, which has bases throughout Japan, has been continuously implementing regional revitalization initiatives (currently the “JAL Furusato Project”), and in August 2020 launched the “JAL Furusato Ambassadors,” cabin crew members selected through an in-house recruitment process who move to the area to promote initiatives in their respective regions. In December of the same year, JAL appointed “JAL Hometown Cheering Troops” who are involved in regional revitalization while serving as flight attendants. The aim is to develop products and solve regional issues for hometowns and other regions with which they have connections, utilizing the knowledge they have accumulated as flight attendants.
We interviewed Ms. Mai Sakai, a JAL Furusato Ambassador who is involved in tours in collaboration with JR Kyushu at the Kyushu Branch Office.
–What can you tell us about your initiatives?
As a pre-event for the Fukuoka/Oita DC (Destination Campaign) to be held from April to June, JR Kyushu cabin crew and Japan Airlines hometown ambassadors will entertain passengers on the “Limited Express KASEMIYOMASAMI” from Hakata to Oita on March 7 and from Oita to Hakata on March 8. Collaboration tour will be held.
JR Kyushu and Japan Airlines have collaborated on three sightseeing tours in the Fukuoka area since 2021.
Cabin attendants from both companies will work together to provide hospitality to passengers on the train, such as offering JAL’s in-flight drink “Sky Time,” local announcements along the train route, and quizzes related to airplanes and trains, to ensure that passengers have a pleasant time on the train.
–How are you involved in this effort?
This time, two JR Kyushu cabin attendants, JAL Furusato Ambassador Sakai, who is in charge of Fukuoka Prefecture, and JAL Furusato Ambassador Fuji, who is in charge of Oita Prefecture, will share with you the charms of both prefectures in a collaborative train tour between JR Kyushu and Japan Airlines, connecting Fukuoka and Oita.
–What are your future plans and prospects?
The tour includes special local treats such as shopping for specialty products from Fukuoka and Oita prefectures on the station platform, a tour of historic sake breweries in Fukuoka and Oita, and a traditional Gion musical welcome at Hita Station in Oita Prefecture.
–What is your message to travelers?
Join us for an enjoyable journey from Fukuoka to Oita, taking the special route that only a sightseeing train can take, enjoying the scenery from the train windows and tasting local specialties. We look forward to meeting you all.
© Source travel watch