ANA (All Nippon Airways) (Tokyo) has introduced this new TV commercial (above) mainly for the domestic Japanese market. The airline in the TV ad is boasting about its international expansion and jokingly suggests it needs to become more international in its appearance. The ad also pokes fun at Westerners. Reactions are on the two ends of the spectrum, either funny or stereotypical racist. There does not appear to be a middle ground of opinions.

My take: Advertising is meant to grab the attention of the viewer. This ad certainly has grabbed the attention of viewers, both in Japan and worldwide. Is it a plus for ANA? Maybe. Time will tell, especially since everything produced today is now worldwide in consumption. There are no barriers on the Internet. Things meant for domestic consumption become an international viral hit in a short amount of time. Personally, I find it very funny. We all need to laugh at ourselves more. What do you think?

In other news, the ANA Group has presented its domestic timetable effective on March 30, 2014 for the summer season:

ANA Group, Japan’s largest airline group, today announces that it has submitted its proposed route network for the summer timetable commencing March 30, 2014 to October 25, 2014 to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism in Japan.ANA continues to further expand its network and improve competitiveness in order to survive in what is an increasingly competitive industry. Details of the service are as follows: (Subject to approval by relevant authorities)

● Newly Launched & Increased Frequency & Resumed Service *1 Flight frequency is 4/day during September 1 – October 25. *2 Seasonal operation during the period.● Decreased Frequency *3 Seasonal decrease of frequency during the period. *4 Flight frequency is 8/day during March 30 – June 30, and 5-7/day during July 1 – October 25. For details please visit our website. *5 Flight frequency is 7/day during March 30 – June 30, and 6/day during July 1 – October 25. ● Route Suspension *6 Code-sharing flight with IBEX Airlines (1/day) will continue to be served.

ANA: