New Kansai International Airport Company has shortlisted 20 bidders for the concession to operate Japan's fifth-busiest airport for 44 years.

Japan has announced plans to privatise 94 airports currently operated by the central or local governments in a bid to reduce landing fees and attract new airlines.

Sendai Airport in Japan, which was crippled by March’s devastating earthquake and tsunami, is due to resume international flights on 25 July, the country’s Transport Ministry has announced.