It wouldn't be back if the demand for it wasn't there. Since there is no real non-stop competition ex-central Canada, AC can do well filling a 777 each day to NRT, drawing locals as well as connections from US eastern cities. AC actually has more difficulty channeling US customers onto its YVR flight, and also competes with aggressive Japan Airlines and even CX. Remember, AC dropped its Osaka service a couple of years ago to focus on NRT from YVR and YYZ.

Fares to NRT are significantly higher this year than last (cheapest by at least $200-$300), as are fares to ICN which last year was the bargain Asian destination. (Same holds for EZE this year vs last year...no more $600 a/i weekends for steak!)