TRAVEL ALERT: Today's devastating earthquake in Japan and resulting tsunami warnings are having an impact on flights across the world.

It is strongly suggested that all non-essential travel to Japan be suspended until April 1. Airports are impacted. All US citizens currently in Japan are being asked to contact family and friends in the States immediatly.

A Few Flights Leave Tokyo's Narita Airport After Earthquake Strands 13,800

Tokyo’s Narita International Airport, Japan’s main overseas gateway, said nine flights would leave today as carriers begin clearing a backlog of about 13,800 travelers stranded by delays following an earthquake.

No planes will land at the airport, Shohei Kagawa, a spokesman, said by telephone. It has yet been decided what services will operate tomorrow. See details

Haneda airport in Tokyo, Asia's second-busiest, resumed flights after an initial shutdown.

Osaka’s two airports are open and undamaged but experiencing acute demand and delays.
Sendai airport was swamped by the tsunami. There are reports of people on the roof of the Sendai terminal building amid wreckage as far as the eye can see.

Public transportation, including trains and subways are closed in the Tokyo area, and service has been interrupted in other areas.

Immediate Effects for Travelers:

The U.S. has stopped all flights to Japan for today. Flights to Guam and Hawaii are basically unaffected at this point. Airlines are providing waivers covering travel from 3/11-3/14 with some extending to 3/18.

U.S. citizens can contact the Department of State at JapanEmergencyUSC@state.gov and are urged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program online or in person at the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulates.

What Travel-On is Doing:

Travel-On / Travel Place continues to identify travelers who may be in these areas or whose travel plans may be impacted, and our agents are contacting them or the travel administrator to provide assistance. If you have any questions about this emergency situation, please contact one of our agents, your travel team leader, or your account manager. We will continue to monitor these conditions and bring you any updates or changes as the news breaks.

For after hours emergencies, please contact your designated Travel Helpline number or call 1-877-858-3254.

If you are planning an international trip, Travel-On recommends that anyone traveling abroad register in the Smart Traveler Program (STEP) through the US State Department.

Stay informed! Check out country specific travel warnings and alerts

If you are have questions about events and civil conditions at a destination please contact your Travel-On/Travel Place agent to discuss.

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