19 February, 1999 - All Nippon Airways (ANA), yesterday unveiled plans to fly a new "ANA Pokémon Jet U.S. Version", starting with a flight from Narita to New York City on February 24, using a specially painted Boeing 747-400 aircraft. The new 747 will become the fourth member of the "ANA Pokémon Jet Family", joining a fleet of three "ANA Pokémon Jets" (one B747-400D and two B767-300s) which already fly on ANA's extensive domestic route network. The "ANA Pokémon Jet U.S. Version" will be used on ANA's North America route network.

Pokémon emerged in 1996 as a Nintendo Gameboy software game in Japan and soon captured the imaginations of children across the nation with its 151 fanciful characters boasting magical powers. In April 1997, Pokémon - the television series - was aired in Japan, followed in the U.S. from September 1998. Pokémon - the TV series - has subsequently entered the Hong Kong, Taiwan and China markets, where it has proved extremely popular. Pokémon also made its big screen debut in Japan last summer.

Passengers flying the "ANA Pokémon Jet U.S. Version" will be welcomed aboard by cabin attendants wearing original Pokémon aprons and will enjoy special Pokémon head rest covers. Original Pokémon goods will be available through ANA in-flight sales.

ANA first added "ANA Pokémon Jets" to its fleet from July 2, 1998, with the introduction of two colorfully decorated aircraft into its domestic services. The third "ANA Pokémon Jet" was added from July 19, also on domestic routes. Since their introduction, the "ANA Pokémon Jet Family" have carried over one million ANA passengers*. With the addition of the "ANA Pokémon Jet U.S. Version", ANA celebrates the fun of flying - and hopes to bring the magic of Pokémon to all of its passengers - both the young and the young at heart.

* as of the end of January, 1999

Digital images available upon request from ANA Public Relations (please see contact numbers above).

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