With a decision looming overhead, it looks likely that Japan Airlines (JAL) will be pulling its direct flights to Las Vegas.  JAL officials communicated to McCarran International Airport recently that the airline is considering pulling all direct flights as a result of downsizing that includes retiring its older Boeing 747's.  With fuel costs still very high, JAL is looking more favorably on smaller planes like the 777 and 787. 

Although a company spokesperson said they are considering cutting back on several international flights, Clark County Aviation Director, Randall Walker, is urging nobody to get their hopes up.  In other words, it looks pretty imminent that JAL will be ending its direct flight service to Las Vegas.

Although JAL was responsible for bringing approximately 86,500 visitors to Las Vegas, the city's Convention and Visitor's Authority says that an end to flights would not put a curb on the number of Japanese gamblers.  JAL is not the only option that Japan travelers have in getting to Nevada.  There are many alternatives that, although may not have direct service, will get people to Las Vegas nonetheless.

Statistics show that only about 19% of all Japanese visitors to Las Vegas casinos in 2004 came through JAL, which is a testament to the increased focus that has been given to the Asian demographic.  Las Vegas has actually made a specific marketing campaign to capitalize on the large demographic of Japanese gamblers.  The campaign has been very successful to date, and has seen support from casinos such as the Wynn, which has a definitive Oriental atmosphere in its beautiful lobby and casino floor.