Originally Posted by
RealHJ
Yes, that is long-haul vs mid-haul flight. But it's still Japan-US/Canada, so the same greater/general market, just longer distance and crossing a whole of an ocean vs. just 1/2. And typically longer haul flights have lesser availability (are sooner redeemed). But of course, each route has different traffic drivers, booking timelines by customers, etc. YVR is likely a less popular destination, so it may very well have better availability - as it does, if still dates such as Sept 7 are open.
Hawaii is a VERY popular route for Japanese. Anyone who has been to Waikiki in May knows this. It's safe, has great Japanese facilities, and many bilingual speakers, combined with 2nd and 3rd generation Japanese.
YVR-NRT traffic is driven more by Vancouver traffic as NRT provides access to Asia.
The September 7th date is interesting to me. I wouldn't be surprised at all if JAL releases the bare minimum in the summer peak season, until they know what plane loads will be.