The majority of visitors choose to fly into Sendai Airport (SDJ) when visiting the bustling city of Sendai. However, there are a couple of airports in the region, so bear that in mind when organizing your travel plans.

SDJ is 14 kilometres from downtown Sendai, so be prepared for a reasonable commute into the city center.

If you’re planning on jumping on a plane to Sendai, you’ll likely arrive at Sendai Intl. Airport (14 kilometres from downtown). GAJ (48 kilometres from downtown) is the other main airport that services the city.

There are 9 air carriers that jet into Sendai from 12 airports around the world.

Sendai receives most of its flights from JAL, ANA and IBEX Airlines with JAL being the preferred choice of carrier. Itami is the most popular city for travelers to depart from.

With around 433 direct flights operating every week, you’ll be hitting the tarmac in Sendai before you have time to say, “Are we there yet?”

Travelers frequently jet off from Itami, Fukuoka and Nagoya airports when going to Sendai.

Where you depart from determines how long you’ll be strapped into your seat. From Itami to Sendai, the average flight time is 1 hour and 12 minutes. From Chitose it’s typically 1 hour and 13 minutes, and from Fukuoka it’s 1 hour and 40 minutes.

If you’d like to have some extra spending money on your trip to Sendai, then listen up! As any experienced jet-setter knows, don’t leave booking until the last minute. Prices are often highest just prior to the departure date. Also, look around online and compare your options. If your destination has more than one airport, you may be able to pick up a great price by flying into a less busy terminal. Lastly, be ready to book quickly if you find a real bargain. It might not be available for long! With a bit of know-how and some good fortune, the perfect fare will be yours.

Depending on where you’re coming from, your trip to Sendai could be completely stress-free or it could go on forever. Here are some useful travel tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It’s easy — first, pack in your passport, important documents, cash and medications. Next, you’ll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a laptop filled with your favorite movies are good options. If you hope to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive at your destination looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don’t have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should always be your main priority when selecting what to wear during your flight. Consider your footwear choice carefully too, as swollen feet and ankles can be a side effect of flying. Flat shoes which are slightly roomy are always a good idea.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by reduced mobility or inactivity. There are many ways to lessen your risk. Wear a good-quality pair of compression tights or socks, stay hydrated and move your legs and feet. Do a lap or two of the cabin or perform exercises in your seat.

It’s all about being prepared. We’ve put together some top tips for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Look out Sendai, here you come:

• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass easily accessible. They’re the first items you’ll be asked to present to security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few moments, you’ll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with a new cologne? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it’s stored in a clear zip-close bag, you’re allowed to bring it with you on board.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you’re less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.