KIX introduces hydrogen fuel cell bus for KIX tours, Senshu Region sightseeing, and Expo 2025 visits

Kansai Airports is pleased to announce the introduction of a hydrogen-powered fuel cell (FC) minibus* in collaboration with KISHIWADA KANKO BUS CO. LTD. 

This is the second FC bus operating at Kansai International Airport (KIX), following the introduction of the “SORA” fixed-route bus, which has been serving as an inter-terminal shuttle since 2022. The newly introduced FC minibus is notable for its capability to operate on expressways, making it the first of its kind in the Kansai region. It is also set to become the first FC bus in Japan to be used for tourism purposes, not only for airport tours but also for sightseeing in the Senshu region and for trips to the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan.  

As the FC bus emits no CO₂ or other environmentally harmful substances during operation, it is expected to contribute to the realization of “Green Expo” and “Smart Mobility Expo,” which are part of the Expo’s future society showcase themes.

Kansai Airports Group has been taking a range of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, such as using renewable energy and hydrogen, in line with its long-term vision of achieving netzero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. We remain committed to fostering proactive  communication with all stakeholders involved in the airport and surrounding regions, contributing to the realization of a sustainable society. 

*A hydrogen-powered fuel cell bus operates using an electric motor, which is powered by electricity generated through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen in the air. It emits no CO₂ or other environmentally harmful substances during operation. This bus has been jointly funded by Kansai Airports and KISHIWADA KANKO BUS CO. LTD. with subsidies provided by the Ministry of the Environment and Osaka Prefecture. 

FY2023 (supplementary budget) Commercial Vehicle Electrification Promotion Project (Taxis and Buses) Subsidy for Promoting the Transition to a Decarbonized Growth-Oriented Economic Structure, administered by the Ministry of the Environment, Japan. https://ataj.or.jp/subsidy/efv-f_taxibus_r5/ 

Subsidy for FY2024 Decarbonization Promotion Project for Bus Operators in Connection with the Expo, administered by the Osaka Prefectural Government. https://www.pref.osaka.lg.jp/o120020/eneseisaku/banpaku_bus/index.html