Video: The Japanese Airport That Doesn’t Lose Bags

NYT Homepage

by River Akira Davis, Nailah Morgan, Jon Hazell, Stephanie Swart, Daishi Kusunoki and Hisako Ueno

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Kansai International Airport, located near Osaka, Japan, boasts an extraordinary achievement: since its opening in 1994, it has never lost a single piece of luggage. This remarkable feat highlights the airport's commitment to efficiency and customer service. River Akira Davis, a Tokyo correspondent, explored how Japanese cultural values have contributed to this success during her visit. The airport's meticulous organization and strict protocols are key to its zero-loss record. Employees are highly respected in Japan, fostering a strong work ethic and dedication to detail. This cultural emphasis ensures that every step of luggage handling is executed with precision, minimizing errors and maximizing guest satisfaction. This achievement at Kansai International Airport offers valuable insights for other industries seeking to enhance operational efficiency. The airport's model demonstrates how integrating cultural values into business practices can lead to exceptional results, making it a case study in excellence worth noting.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/23/2026