Kashikojima Heliport

Economic and operational decision. The heliport's permit as an official off-airfield landing site (場外離着陸場) was officially abolished on this date by Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) following a request from the operator, Kintetsu Hotel Systems. This indicates the operator no longer saw a sufficient business case for the facility, likely due to low demand for private helicopter charters versus the high cost of maintenance, insurance, and regulatory compliance.

The heliport is permanently closed to all air traffic. Satellite imagery from 2024 shows that the physical helipad, a circular paved area with the 'H' marking, still exists on the hotel grounds adjacent to 'The Classic' building. However, as it is no longer a legally registered landing site, it is now simply a defunct part of the hotel property. The structure has not been demolished but cannot be used for aviation purposes.

Kashikojima Heliport was a private facility owned and operated by the prestigious Shima Kanko Hotel. Its primary function was to provide direct, high-end transport for VIP guests. It also supported scenic helicopter tours over the beautiful Ise-Shima National Park and Ago Bay. The heliport's most significant moment on the world stage was during the 42nd G7 Ise-Shima Summit in May 2016, where the Shima Kanko Hotel served as the main venue. The heliport was a critical piece of infrastructure for transporting world leaders, delegations, and for extensive security operations. Additionally, it was designated as an emergency landing site for Mie Prefecture's 'Doctor Heli' air ambulance service, playing a role in regional emergency medical response.

There are no known plans or prospects for reopening the heliport. The closure was initiated by the hotel operator, making a reversal highly unlikely unless a significant new and sustainable demand for helicopter services in the area emerges. For the foreseeable future, the heliport is considered permanently closed.