Japan’s tourism ambitions set back by airport ground crew shortage

TOKYO — A shortage of ground crew to handle tasks from guiding passengers to aircraft cleaning and catering is hampering Japan’s efforts to bring in more foreign tourists as the aviation industry continues to feel the impact of pandemic cutbacks.

In late September, Narita Airport near Tokyo had requests for 152 more flights per week but could allow only 101 because of a shortage of ground handlers. Although the airport has been adjusting staffing levels, and the situation has improved somewhat, it is still in a tough position.