Japan's transport ministry plans to cover half the cost for domestic airlines and local governments managing airports to buy snowplows and other snow removal gear. The initiative aims to maintain stable flight operations and prevent passengers from being stranded due to heavy snow delays and cancellations.
The transport ministry, known as MLIT, has allocated ¥1 billion in the fiscal 2026 budget bill for this new subsidy program to bolster snow removal at airports. It targets advanced equipment, including autonomous snowplows and single-seat de-icing vehicles, which aid in clearing snow and preventing buildup on aircraft.
The ministry will also fund the installation of sensors that automatically measure snow depth on runways. These sensors use artificial intelligence (AI) to alert airport staff on when to initiate snow removal.
Funding comes from revenue generated by the international tourist tax, with no upper limit on subsidies; allocations will depend on demand. The effort focuses on regions prone to heavy snow, aiming to reduce flight disruptions and improve passenger experiences without additional taxpayer burden.
