All Nippon Airways (ANA) primarily operates its international departure services from the 4th Floor (4F) of the South Wing in Terminal 1 at Narita International Airport (NRT). This floor serves as the main international departure lobby, housing check-in counters A through J, self-service kiosks, automated baggage drops, and the primary security checkpoints for Star Alliance passengers.
Navigating one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs requires a clear understanding of terminal layout and carrier-specific logistics. For passengers flying with All Nippon Airways (ANA), the Terminal 1 South Wing 4th Floor is the critical starting point of the international journey. As of 2026, Narita International Airport has further integrated advanced biometric technologies and streamlined baggage handling systems to enhance the "Fast Travel" experience. This guide provides a technical and operational breakdown of the ANA departure experience at Terminal 1, ensuring passengers can navigate the 4F lobby with precision and efficiency.
The Layout of Terminal 1 South Wing 4F
The 4th floor of Narita’s Terminal 1 is divided into two distinct sections: the North Wing and the South Wing. The South Wing is the designated hub for ANA and its Star Alliance partners. This strategic consolidation allows for seamless transfers between ANA and carriers such as United Airlines, Lufthansa, and Singapore Airlines.
Upon arriving at the 4th floor, passengers are greeted by a vast, high-ceilinged lobby organized by check-in "Zones" or "Rows," labeled alphabetically from A to J. ANA occupies the most prominent real estate in this wing, typically utilizing Rows A, B, C, and D for its various passenger classes and service requirements. The floor is designed with a linear flow: check-in and baggage drop occur at the front (curbside) and middle sections, while security screening and immigration portals are located toward the rear of the hall.
Accessing the 4th Floor
Travelers can reach the 4th-floor departure lobby through several primary channels:
- Via Train: Passengers arriving via the JR Narita Express or Keisei Skyliner will disembark at the "Narita Airport Terminal 1" station (located on level B1F). From there, elevators and escalators provide direct access to the 4F Departure Lobby.
- Via Bus/Taxi: The departure level is accessible via the elevated roadway. Limousine buses and taxis drop passengers off directly at the curbside of the 4F South Wing entrance.
- From Internal Parking: Elevators from the P1 and P5 parking structures lead directly into the Terminal 1 complex, with clear signage directing travelers to the South Wing.
ANA Check-In Zones and Eligibility
ANA has optimized its 4F footprint to cater to different passenger profiles, ranging from high-tier elite members to group travelers and economy passengers. Understanding which zone to approach is essential for minimizing wait times.
Zone A: ANA Suite Check-In
Zone A is the most exclusive area of the 4F lobby. It is dedicated to ANA First Class passengers and Diamond Service members of the ANA Mileage Club. This area offers a "concierge-style" experience, where passengers can check in and drop baggage in a private, high-touch environment. Zone A typically provides a direct path to a priority security lane, significantly reducing the time spent in the public lobby.
Zone B: Business Class and Star Alliance Gold
Zone B caters to Business Class passengers and Star Alliance Gold members. This zone is equipped with dedicated staffed counters to handle complex itineraries or passengers requiring personalized assistance. Even in 2026, while automation is prevalent, ANA maintains a strong human presence in Zone B to uphold its "Omotenashi" (Japanese hospitality) standards.
Zones C and D: Economy Class and Self-Service
Zones C and D represent the bulk of the ANA check-in operation. These zones are characterized by a "Self-Service First" model. Passengers are encouraged to use the ANA self-service kiosks to print boarding passes and baggage tags before proceeding to the automated baggage drop machines. Staff members are stationed throughout these zones to assist travelers with the technology.
| Service Tier | Check-In Zone | Eligibility | Primary Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| ANA First Class | Zone A | First Class Passengers / Diamond Members | Private concierge, dedicated security access |
| ANA Business Class | Zone B | Business Class / Star Alliance Gold | Staffed counters, priority baggage handling |
| Premium Economy | Zone C | Premium Economy Passengers | Dedicated kiosks, priority lane access |
| Economy Class | Zone C / D | Standard International Passengers | Automated bag drop, self-service kiosks |
| Assistance/Special | Zone D | Passengers with disabilities, strollers | Low-profile counters, specialized staff |
Advanced Technology: Face Express and Smart Check-In
By 2026, the Face Express system (also known as OneID) has become the standard for international departures at Narita Terminal 1. This biometric technology allows passengers to navigate the airport without repeatedly showing their passports or boarding passes after the initial registration.
How to Use Face Express at ANA 4F
- Registration: At the 4F self-service kiosks (located in Zones C and D) or at the dedicated Face Express registration machines, passengers scan their passports and have their photos taken.
- Data Integration: The system links the passenger's biometric data with their flight information.
- Seamless Transit: Once registered, passengers can proceed through the automated baggage drop, the entrance to the security area, and the boarding gate using only facial recognition.
The implementation of Face Express has significantly reduced "bottlenecking" at the entrance to the security checkpoints on the 4th floor, which historically saw long queues during the mid-morning and early-evening peak departure banks.
Automated Baggage Drop (SBD) Systems
Located primarily within the ANA footprint in the South Wing 4F, the Self-Service Baggage Drop (SBD) units are a cornerstone of the terminal's efficiency. These machines allow passengers who have already checked in online or at a kiosk to check their luggage in under 60 seconds.
Operational Steps for SBD:
- Tagging: After printing a baggage tag at an ANA kiosk, the passenger attaches it to the side handle of their suitcase.
- Scanning: The suitcase is placed on the SBD conveyor belt. The machine scans the barcode and verifies the weight against the passenger’s ticket allowance.
- Security Screening: Once accepted, the bag is automatically moved into the airport’s Internal Baggage Handling System (BHS) for X-ray screening.
- Receipt: The machine issues a baggage claim receipt, which the passenger must retain for arrival at their destination.
Passengers with oversized items (such as surfboards or skis) or those carrying restricted materials must still visit the staffed "Oversized Baggage" counters located near the ends of the South Wing lobby.
Amenities and Services on the 4th Floor
The 4F South Wing is not merely a transit point; it is a fully equipped service hub designed to meet the needs of international travelers before they pass through security.
Currency Exchange and Banking
Several currency exchange booths are situated at the edges of the 4F lobby. While many travelers now use digital wallets, these booths remain essential for obtaining small denominations of foreign currency. Major Japanese banks, including MUFG and Mizuho, operate branches or high-function ATMs here that accept international debit cards.
Wi-Fi and SIM Card Rentals
To the right of the South Wing entrance (near the G-H check-in rows), several kiosks offer pocket Wi-Fi rentals and prepaid Japanese SIM cards. This is a vital stop for departing residents or travelers who need connectivity during their final hours in Japan or for their next destination.
Last-Minute Shopping and Dining
While the most extensive duty-free shopping is located airside (after passport control), the 4F "landside" area features several shops:
- Travel Goods: Stores selling luggage locks, neck pillows, and universal adapters.
- Pharmacy: A small drugstore for basic medications and toiletries.
- Convenience Stores: A 7-Eleven or Lawson is typically available for quick snacks and drinks.
- Dining: The 4th and 5th floors are connected by central escalators leading to a wide variety of restaurants ranging from traditional ramen and sushi to Western-style cafes.
Baggage Services and Wrapping
For passengers concerned about the safety of their luggage, baggage wrapping services are available on the 4F. Additionally, delivery services (like Yamato Transport or JAL ABC) have counters here where passengers can pick up luggage they shipped from their hotels directly to the airport.
Security and Immigration: The Final 4F Steps
Once check-in is complete, passengers proceed to the rear of the 4F South Wing to enter the International Security Checkpoint. There are two main entrances in the South Wing: the North Security Gate and the South Security Gate.
The Security Screening Process
Narita utilizes advanced CT scanners for cabin baggage, which in many cases allows passengers to keep liquids and electronics inside their bags, though local regulations should always be verified on the day of travel. Passengers who have registered for Face Express will use the biometric lanes to enter the security area.
Priority Lanes
ANA Diamond, Platinum, and Star Alliance Gold members have access to the "Gold Track" priority security lane. This lane is specifically designed to bypass the standard queues, ensuring that premium passengers can reach the ANA lounges or their gates with minimal delay.
Immediately following security is the Passport Control/Immigration area. For most departing passengers, this involves an automated gate where the passport is scanned and a facial recognition camera verifies the traveler's identity. Foreign nationals may still need to interact with an immigration officer depending on their visa status.
Practical Recommendations for ANA Passengers
To ensure a smooth experience at Narita Terminal 1 South Wing 4F, consider the following expert tips:
- Arrive Early: Despite the 2026 technological advancements, it is recommended to arrive at the 4F lobby at least 3 hours before an international flight, especially during the 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM peak period.
- Verify Your Row: ANA check-in rows can occasionally shift based on daily flight volumes. Always check the digital flight information displays (FIDS) immediately upon entering the 4th floor.
- Check-In Online: Use the ANA mobile app to check in 24 hours in advance. This allows you to use the "Baggage Drop Only" lanes, which are significantly faster than full-service check-in.
- Weight Limits: Narita is strict regarding baggage weight. Use the free scales located near the 4F pillars to check your luggage weight before joining the SBD queue to avoid having to reorganize your bags at the machine.
- Visit the Observation Deck: If you have extra time, head up to the 5th floor (accessible via the 4F central escalators). The Terminal 1 observation deck offers one of the best views of the runways and is a great way to spend 15 minutes before heading through security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which check-in row does ANA use at Narita Terminal 1?
ANA primarily uses Rows A, B, C, and D in the South Wing of Terminal 1. Row A is reserved for First Class and Diamond members, Row B for Business Class and Star Alliance Gold, and Rows C and D for Premium Economy, Economy, and self-service check-in.
Can I check in for an ANA flight at the North Wing?
No. All ANA international flights are handled exclusively in the South Wing of Terminal 1. The North Wing is used by SkyTeam carriers and other non-Star Alliance airlines. If you find yourself in the North Wing, it is a 5-10 minute walk through the "Central Building" to reach the South Wing 4F.
Is the Face Express system mandatory at Narita?
No, Face Express is voluntary. If you prefer not to use biometric registration, you can still use your physical passport and boarding pass at all checkpoints. However, using Face Express generally results in shorter wait times at security and boarding gates.
Are there ANA Lounges on the 4th Floor?
While the check-in is on the 4th floor, the ANA Lounges are located airside (after security and immigration). Once you pass through the 4F security gates and descend to the 3rd floor (Gate area), you will find the ANA Suite Lounge and the standard ANA Lounge near Satellite 4 and Satellite 5.
What time does the ANA check-in counter open at Narita?
For international flights, ANA check-in counters on the 4F typically open at 6:25 AM. Counters generally remain open throughout the day until the departure of the final ANA flight of the evening.
Can I use the automated baggage drop for partner airlines?
The automated baggage drop machines in the ANA area are specifically configured for ANA-operated flights. If you are flying on a codeshare flight operated by a partner airline (e.g., United or Lufthansa), you should check in at that specific airline’s designated row, though most are also located within the South Wing 4F.
Next Steps After 4F
After completing the processes on the 4th floor and clearing immigration, you will find yourself on the 3rd floor (Airside). From here, you can proceed to the ANA Lounges or your designated departure gate. Be sure to check the monitors as gates in Terminal 1 can be a 10-15 minute walk from the central immigration area, particularly those in the far satellites.
