New service allows transportation for whole family

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Gena Armstrong
  • Det. 12, Air Force News Agency
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan (AFPN) --  Traveling to Misawa Air Base is a long flight from the states for families, but now members of the 35th Services Squadron here have started a new service so pets can ride a special bus with their families once they arrive in Japan instead of getting onto another plane.

For people being stationed at Misawa AB, an extra series of trips is required with flights initially arriving in Narita International, but to get to the base in northern Japan the most convenient choice is another plane ride. 

This means taking the pet on a shuttle from Narita International to another airport in Tokyo. 

Transporting a pet with the rest of the family comes out of pocket, but the new service with a specially equipped Narita International shuttle bus has an air-conditioned and heated undercarriage compartment that will fit pet kennels and solves this expensive issue.

"We were looking at spending over $1,000 when we moved here to bring one of our dogs" said Sharon Ressler, a pet owner in Misawa AB. "Now we have (a new dog). We don't plan on leaving her behind when we leave."

The shuttle bus costs $75 for each pet and $70 for each person. People leaving and coming to Misawa AB can use the shuttle, but they should make reservations at least two weeks in advance. 

The bus is a lengthier option than flying, but provides necessary comfort to pets. During the 12-hour ride, there are breaks every 90 minutes to allow the pets some relief time from the travel.

"He's a good-sized, medium breed and sometimes air travel is a little bit difficult on him, especially once you cross the ocean. The last thing he wants to do is get on another plane," said Ellen Smith, who owns a black Labrador at Misawa AB.

Those coming to Misawa AB looking for more information can contact the Misawa AB Information, Tickets and Tours office by emailing monika.mulrooney@misawa.af.mil. 

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