Open-Skies deal between U.S. and Japan

Flying between the United States and Japan is set to become a whole lot easier after the two nations agreed to an Open-Skies deal. The deal hasn't been formalized yet, but both governments are eager to get rid of restrictions on what airlines can fly where, and how many flights they can operate.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray Lahood said, "Once this agreement takes effect, American and Japanese consumers, airlines, and economies will enjoy the benefits of competitive pricing and more convenient service."

At the moment there's a cap on the number of flights between the U.S. and Japan, and restrictions on how they're operated, but those will disappear. Expect some great offers as airlines scramble to get a bigger share of a newly expanded market.

The agreement will cover cargo services too, so with any luck shipping costs will be going down as well.

Once the agreement is finalized, Japan will be the 95th Open-Skies partner with the U.S.

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