Japan Airlines to give complimentary domestic flights to international passengers (from some countries!)

Japan Airlines is introducing an exclusive offer for international travellers - complimentary domestic flights to any destination within Japan when booking an international flight with the well-respected carrier. 

Key points of the offer

- Complimentary Domestic Flights: Book an international flight with JAL and receive free domestic flights to explore more of Japan.

- Seamless Travel Experience: Plan your journey with ease, staying at your initial destination (e.g., Tokyo) and travelling to another location within Japan without extra charges for most travellers.

Rules for the special offer mean that customers must book a Japan Airlines international flight and also a corresponding domestic flight in the same reservation, separate bookings for domestic flights are not eligible.

A stopover fee applies to U.S., Canada, Mexico, and China travellers whose first destination stay in Japan exceeds 24 hours. No additional charges apply to travellers from other countries for the domestic segments.

Unfortunately, the deal is not available for everyone, the carrier has decided to discriminate against travellers from Europe and limit the free offer to nationals of Australia, Canada, China, Indonesia, Mexico, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, Vietnam and the United States of America. 

Schedule for free domestic flight offer:

Explore More of Japan with JAL's Domestic Flights and Services 

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New cargo routes between Tokyo's Haneda Airport and Sapporo's New Chitose Airport and Kitakyushu Airport lauched

Yamato, Japan Airlines and Spring Japan began operating dedicated cargo aircraft between Tokyo's Haneda Airport and Sapporo's New Chitose Airport and Kitakyushu Airport on Thursday, August 1, 2024. This new development makes Haneda Airport the fifth airport to be served by these freighters, following Narita Airport, New Chitose Airport, Kitakyushu Airport, and Naha Airport, which have been in service since April 11, 2024. 

The new cargo services will include routes between Haneda Airport (Tokyo) and New Chitose Airport (Sapporo, Hokkaido) and Kitakyushu Airport (Kitakyushu, Fukuoka). These freighters are the only scheduled cargo flights in Japan to service Haneda Airport and will operate during the late night hours when existing passenger aircraft are not in operation. This allows for the speedy and highly fresh distribution of products to more distant locations while maintaining daytime production times for products and harvesting and catching times for agricultural and marine products. Like similar existing operations at Narita Airport, this method also does not impede smooth connections for international morning departures for passengers at Haneda Airport.

Harnessing the strengths of these freighters, Yamato Holdings and the two airline companies will help producers and business operators expand their trade areas and aid the revitalization of regional industries through rapid transportation, an advantage of air transport, highly convenient flight schedules including late night hours, and a transportation network that stretches even beyond Japan's borders, in addition to securing stable transportation capacity.

New initiative to promote SAF use and decarbonize aviation begins in Japan

Sustainable aviation fuel - SAF is expected to contribute to the decarbonization of aviation by substantially reducing the volume of CO₂ emissions compared with conventional aviation fuel.

To encourage the use of SAF, a project aimed at building a new scheme for trading Scope 3 environmental value*2—the reduction effects of indirect CO₂ emissions resulting from SAF use—is being launched. As the first step, seven companies (listed below) have agreed to conduct a demonstration test of Scope 3 environmental value trading to verify the concept behind the new scheme.

Scope 3 Environmental Value Trading Demonstration Test to be Conducted at Narita Airport -

This represents the world’s first*3 initiative bringing together fuel suppliers, an airline, a forwarder, and an airport operator in an effort to jump-start trading in Scope 3 environmental value. Brisk trading in environmental value via this project’s scheme will make it possible to share the costs associated with SAF throughout the air transport value chain.

After a trial phase of trading, a full-scale demonstration project with a larger number of participating companies will be followed by efforts to achieve the social implementation of the established scheme. The use of this scheme by a large number of companies involved in air transport will generate substantial opportunities to drive the widespread uptake of SAF throughout Japan. 

Extending decarbonization efforts to encompass the entire air transport value chain will secure the sustainable growth of the aviation industry.

◼Information on and Comments from Each Company

ITOCHU Corporation

Head Office: Minato-ku, Tokyo   President & COO: ISHII Keita

ITOCHU’s management policy commits to the enhancement of corporate brand value, and positions “Enhancing our contribution to and engagement with the SDGs through business activities” as one pillar of this effort. Through this project and increasing the market prevalence of SAF in cooperation with leading partners, ITOCHU aims to make an even greater contribution to the achievement of a circular economy.

ENEOS Corporation

Head Office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo   President: YAMAGUCHI Atsuji

ENEOS is moving forward with the construction of an integrated system covering everything from procurement of the raw materials for SAF to in-house manufacture and sales. Through its participation in this project, ENEOS will promote Scope 3 environmental value and SAF use, thereby contributing to the reduction of GHG emissions throughout the aviation industry value chain.

NIPPON EXPRESS HOLDINGS, INC. (NX)

Head Office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo   President & CEO: HORIKIRI Satoshi

Expanding the use of SAF is crucial to the pursuit of decarbonization in the aviation field, and efforts throughout the supply chain are required. Participating in this project as a forwarder, the NX Group aims to contribute to the creation of a sustainable society.

Japan Airlines introduces new exclusive inflight menu with Shiseido Parlour

Japan Airlines and Shiseido Parlour have announced a new collaboration to offer an exclusive inflight menu. This special menu, curated by the executive chef of Shiseido Parlour, will be available on JAL flights from September 1, 2024, to August 31, 2025.

JAL and Shiseido Parlour previously collaborated on a special menu for Hawaii routes from September 2016 to August 2018, which received high praise from many passengers. This new collaboration will feature six exclusive menu items, including Shiseido Parlour's traditional beef stew, shrimp doria, and grilled chicken with chasseur sauce. For dessert, passengers can enjoy Shiseido Parlour's signature cheesecake.

Shiseido Parlour, a pioneer of Western cuisine in Japan, is renowned for its commitment to authenticity, high quality, and deliciousness, while also cherishing tradition and creating new value. JAL, which has been challenging and growing as the wings of Japan since it first pioneered the history of Japanese skies, continues to build connections with people, society, and the world. The collaboration values tradition, innovation, and the spirit of Japan to deliver deliciousness and excitement to all passengers. Please enjoy the traditional flavours, filled with Shiseido Parlour's dedication on board JAL flights.

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Applicable Class: Premium Economy Class and Economy Class (served as the first meal.)
Period of Service: September 1, 2024 ～ August 31, 2025
Applicable Routes: Flights from Narita, Haneda and Chubu and Kansai airports to Beijing, Dalian, Tianjin, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, and Taipei
Menu: The menu will change every two months, offering a total of six exclusive items, including Shiseido Parlour's traditional beef stew, shrimp doria, and grilled chicken with chasseur sauce.

Yamato launches new cargo route between Tokyo and Sapporo/Kitakyushu

Yamato, Japan Airlines and Spring Japan began operating dedicated cargo aircraft between Tokyo's Haneda Airport and Sapporo's New Chitose Airport and Kitakyushu Airport on Thursday, August 1, 2024. This new development makes Haneda Airport the fifth airport to be served by these freighters, following Narita Airport, New Chitose Airport, Kitakyushu Airport, and Naha Airport, which have been in service since April 11, 2024. 

The new cargo services will include routes between Haneda Airport (Tokyo) and New Chitose Airport (Sapporo, Hokkaido) and Kitakyushu Airport (Kitakyushu, Fukuoka). These freighters are the only scheduled cargo flights in Japan to service Haneda Airport and will operate during the late night hours when existing passenger aircraft are not in operation. This allows for the speedy and highly fresh distribution of products to more distant locations while maintaining daytime production times for products and harvesting and catching times for agricultural and marine products. Like similar existing operations at Narita Airport, this method also does not impede smooth connections for international morning departures for passengers at Haneda Airport.

Harnessing the strengths of these freighters, Yamato Holdings and the two airline companies will help producers and business operators expand their trade areas and aid the revitalization of regional industries through rapid transportation, an advantage of air transport, highly convenient flight schedules including late night hours, and a transportation network that stretches even beyond Japan's borders, in addition to securing stable transportation capacity.

Japan Airlines "JAL Fantastic Journey Express" to begin domestic flights in late october

Japan Airlines has confirmed that its President and Group CEO Mitsuko Tottori and Oriental Land Co. President and COO Kenji Yoshida will launch the “JAL Fantastic Journey Express” special liveried Boeing 767-300ER, which will begin domestic flights in Japan for a limited period starting in late October. 

The aircraft’s design is inspired by the new Fantasy Springs-themed port that opened at Tokyo DisneySea Park on June 6, 2024, at Tokyo Disney Resort.  Japan Airlines is an official sponsor which marks the sixth collaboration since JAL first teamed up with Tokyo DisneySea when it opened in 2001.

Fantasy Springs is the only themed port of its kind in the world, featuring three areas inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios films Frozen, Tangled and Peter Pan, as well as the latest Disney-themed hotel, Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel.

The aircraft design evokes magical springs that lead to a world of Disney fantasy, featuring Anna, Elsa, Rapunzel and Peter Pan against backdrops inspired by locations from Fantasy Springs, such as Arendelle Castle, Rapunzel’ s Tower and Captain Hook’s ship, the Jolly Roger.

Inflight Experience

Passengers will enjoy special designs on headrest covers and paper cups, immersing themselves in the world of Fantasy Springs as they travel aboard the "JAL Fantastic Journey Express" aircraft.

Additionally, the “JAL Happy Dream Campaign 2024"* is currently underway, offering participants a chance to win prizes, including invitations to JAL’s exclusive party events at Tokyo DisneySea.

Guests are invited to take this opportunity to travel to various destinations across Japan on JAL Group flights.

Japan Airlines and Liverpool Football Club celebrate the grand opening of the Japan Airlines Lounge at Anfield Stadium

Japan Airlines (JAL) and Liverpool Football Club (LFC) are pleased to announce the grand opening of the Japan Airlines Lounge at Anfield Stadium, marking a key milestone in their new multi-year partnership announced in June 2024. The Japan Airlines Lounge, accessible through purchased hospitality packages, offers a vibrant space with a three-course menu and exceptional matchday service.

Officially opening hours ahead of LFC's first home match on August 25, the new lounge design offers a fresh and unique experience that blends Japanese hospitality with the excitement of English football. Reflecting the serenity and luxury of JAL's service, the lounge design was inspired by elements of Japanese nature and architecture, seen in the use of timbers, soft lighting, and clean lines with modern contemporary furnishings throughout. 

The Japan Airlines Lounge, occupying the former 1892 hospitality space, will be open during Liverpool FC home matches. 

Japan Airlines and ENEOS conclude an agreement on the sale and purchase of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

Japan Airlines Co. and ENEOS Corporation have signed an agreement on the sale and purchase of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to accelerate its early implementation in Japan. Under this agreement, ENEOS will become the first Japanese leading energy company to import SAF and supply it to JAL, which is actively procuring SAF both in Japan and overseas.

In the aviation industry, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), has set a goal to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions from international flights by 2050 and aims to reduce emissions in the international aviation sector by 15% compared to 2019 levels starting from 2024. To accelerate the decarbonization of the aviation industry, the promotion of domestically produced SAF is crucial. As a first step towards this goal, both companies have agreed to promote the establishment of a domestic SAF supply chain through this agreement.

Moving forward, JAL and ENEOS will continue to work together to promote the widespread use of SAF in Japan and contribute to the decarbonization of the aviation industry.

Japan Airlines prize announced for HERALBONY Art Prize 2024

Japan Airlines, as a gold sponsor, has selected the “JAL Prize” in the “HERALBONY Art Prize 2024,” an international art award for artists with disabilities organized by HERALBONY Co., Ltd. 

Shigaku Mizukami

As a child, he enjoyed drawing anime characters, but after he started attending Yamanami Workshop, he began drawing patterns as soon as he picked up the brushes and rulers available in the room. His work features countless colored fan-shapes and dots. The brush movements and the way he places dots are methodical, repeating the same actions slowly. It is unclear whether he has a specific image in mind, whether he is simply enjoying the colours and movements, or what he feels as he draws. However, the way he uses his brush for lines and the arrangement of dots seem to indicate how he is feeling at that moment in time.

Source: https://store.heralbony.jp/blogs/artists/shigakumizukami （Japanese only）

Reasons for selection

Mr. Mizukami’s work, which embodies diversity and free-spirited imagination, captured the hearts of many JAL Group employees. The various coloured dots seem to symbolize a range of people gathering and connecting, while the bright-coloured fan shapes evoke an image of freely soaring into the future with diverse personalities. It is truly a piece that resonates with the JAL Group, which connects the world through air travel.

Future developments

Mr. Mizukami's artwork selected for the JAL Prize will be featured in JAL Group’s international and domestic flight services. Opportunities for people around the world to encounter and connect with diverse values will be created by colouring their travel with Mr. Mizukami's artwork.

Collaboration measures with Mr. Mizukami's works

1. Ｐaper cups for inflight beverage service

  -  Period: October 2024 - November 2024

  -  Available on all routes

　　　　　　　　　Inflight paper cups （*Image）

2. Inflight amenities for Business Class

 -  Period: Scheduled for November 2024

 -  Available routes: Between Japan and Europe, USA (except Hawaii, Guam), Canada, and Australia

　　　　　　　　　Business Class Amenity

Japan Airlines introduces Disney+ Originals to inflight entertainment - A 1st for Japanese airlines

Japan Airlines is the first Japanese airline to introduce a selection of Disney+ Originals in its inflight entertainment on both international and domestic flights.

Disney+ offers beloved content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, and more. With the addition of Disney+ Originals, JAL's inflight entertainment now features an even wider variety of movies, dramas, and series, including exclusive original content, ensuring a magical journey in the sky.

The service commenced on July 1, 2024, for international flights and was introduced on domestic services on August 1, 2024. 

JAL provides entertainment services on all its aircraft, allowing passengers to enjoy movies, anime, and TV programs on personal monitors, or on their own smartphones and tablets, even on aircraft without built-in monitors, ensuring a comfortable journey for all. The latest Airbus A350-1000 features 4K monitors and Bluetooth connectivity in all classes, and the world's first in-seat speakers in First and Business Class, offering an even more immersive inflight entertainment experience. Additionally, JAL plans to offer free inflight Wi-Fi on international flights to enhance the internet connectivity environment.

Through continuously evolving inflight entertainment, JAL aims to create the best possible journey tailored to each customer's needs.

Junko SAKIHARA, Deputy Senior Vice President of Customer Experience Dept said: "We are delighted to be the first airline in Japan to offer a wide range of Disney+ Originals on both domestic and international flights. We are very pleased to provide a comfortable journey to many of our customers. JAL aims to offer services that allow each customer to choose according to their preferences, through a variety of inflight entertainment and stable inflight Wi-Fi. During this summer vacation, please create unforgettable memories with your family and friends by enjoying the wonderful works of Disney+ Originals on JAL flights."

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For more details on Japan Airlines inflight entertainment, click here.

Japan Airlines commits to 10 Boeing 787-9 jets with options for 10 more

The US aircraft maker,  Boeing announced this week an agreement with Japan Airlines for up to 20 more 787 Dreamliners for international routes to North America, Asia and India. The deal includes 10 787-9s with options for 10 more, adding to JAL's current fleet of more than 50 of the popular widebody aircraft.

"We are delighted to announce the addition of 787 Dreamliners to our fleet. This order underscores our commitment to accelerating the introduction of the modern and more fuel-efficient aircraft to deliver unparalleled service to our customers and further reduce CO₂ emissions. We greatly appreciate the strong relationship and support from Boeing, which has been instrumental in our efforts to modernize our fleet and expand our international routes," said Yukio Nakagawa, JAL Executive Officer of Procurement.

Like most of Boeing's recent announcements,  this deal has not yet been completed and no final contract has been signed. There are still a number of issues yet to be resolved, but the manufacturer promises that once this order is finalized and posted to Boeing's Orders & Deliveries website, the carrier will have 10 787s and 21 737 flawed MAX jets on order.

In recent years, JAL has leveraged the versatility of the 787 to open new point-to-point markets from Tokyo to San Diego, Boston and Bangalore. With a range of up to 7,565 nautical miles (14,010 km), the 787-9 possesses the longest-range capability within the 787 Dreamliner family, enabling JAL to open new routes and adding flexibility to its existing network.

"Japan Airlines continues to be a global ambassador for the 787 Dreamliner and this latest agreement is a testament to the versatility and efficiency of the 787-9 for the airline's key long-haul routes," said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. "We value our long-standing partnership with Japan Airlines and are pleased that they have re-selected the 787 Dreamliner as they continue to modernize their world-class fleet."

. Book flights on Japan Airlines at discounted rates here.

Japan Airlines was founded in 1951 and is the Japanese flag carrier airline. In 2001, it merged with Japan Air System to form the Japan Airlines System. The airline's headquarters are in Japan's capital city, Tokyo, and it has operating hubs in both of that city's airports, Haneda International Airport and Narita International Airport. It also has smaller, secondary hubs at Osaka International Airport and Kansai International Airport, plus focuses on Fukuoka Airport, New Chitose Airport, Naha Airport and Chubu Centrair International Airport.
Japan Airlines has a large fleet of 170 aeroplanes that fly to more than 90 destinations all over the world. Among these, New York, Shanghai, London Heathrow and Seoul are some of its busiest routes. Since 2007, it has been a part of the Oneworld Alliance. As well as its partnerships with other oneworld members, it also has codeshare agreements in place with several additional carriers. These are Emirates, Air France, Air Tahiti Nui and WestJet.

Japan Airlines and Liverpool Football Club agree massive multi-year partnership

Liverpool Football Club and Japan Airlines have signed a global, multi-year partnership, which will see the award-winning airline become the club's official airline partner.

Liverpool FC and Japan Airlines Soar Together in Global Partnership

This partnership, which extends to both the men's and women's teams, aligns the global ambitions of two world-class brands, combining the passion and heritage of one of the world's most storied football clubs, with the exceptional service and reach of Japan's premier airline. Both organizations will work together to support and complement their ambitious global growth plans, leveraging their respective strengths to grow their global footprints.

Ben Latty, Chief Commercial Officer at Liverpool FC, said: "We are delighted to welcome Japan Airlines onboard. Liverpool FC and Japan Airlines are two premium market leaders, recognized for their winning mentality and shared commitment to connecting with either fans or flyers and communities worldwide."

"This partnership aligns our global ambitions, combining the passion and heritage of one of the world's most storied football clubs, with the exceptional service and reach of Japan's premier airline. The partnership will create opportunities for fans to engage with the club through unique activations and experiences."

"Partnering with Japan Airlines is another major step forward in our club's strategy to expand our international presence and engage more deeply with our diverse and dedicated global fanbase."

Liverpool FC is the most engaged club in the Premier League with over 1.5 billion fan engagements on social and the most viewed club on socials with 11.9 billion views. Liverpool FC is also the most watched European football club globally across domestic and league cup fixtures, with hundreds of millions of fans and over 330 Official Liverpool Supporters Clubs across the globe.

Junko Sakihara, Deputy Senior Vice President – Customer Experience at Japan Airlines, said: "This partnership is significant for us because it will allow us to deepen connections with our customers and develop new relationships with Liverpool FC fans around the world. We feel incredibly fortunate to be embarking on this exciting journey with the Liverpool FC and the LFC Foundation." 

Liverpool FC and Japan Airlines Embark on a Journey of Purpose

Liverpool Football Club and Japan Airlines enter into multi-year partnership as club's official airline partner

Liverpool Football Club and Japan Airlines have signed a global, multi-year partnership, which will see the award-winning airline become the club's official airline partner.

Liverpool FC and Japan Airlines Soar Together in Global Partnership

This partnership, which extends to both the men's and women's teams, aligns the global ambitions of two world-class brands, combining the passion and heritage of one of the world's most storied football clubs, with the exceptional service and reach of Japan's premier airline. Both organizations will work together to support and complement their ambitious global growth plans, leveraging their respective strengths to grow their global footprints.

Ben Latty, Chief Commercial Officer at Liverpool FC, said: "We are delighted to welcome Japan Airlines onboard. Liverpool FC and Japan Airlines are two premium market leaders, recognized for their winning mentality and shared commitment to connecting with either fans or flyers and communities worldwide."

"This partnership aligns our global ambitions, combining the passion and heritage of one of the world's most storied football clubs, with the exceptional service and reach of Japan's premier airline. The partnership will create opportunities for fans to engage with the club through unique activations and experiences."

"Partnering with Japan Airlines is another major step forward in our club's strategy to expand our international presence and engage more deeply with our diverse and dedicated global fanbase."

Liverpool FC is the most engaged club in the Premier League with over 1.5 billion fan engagements on social and the most viewed club on socials with 11.9 billion views. Liverpool FC is also the most watched European football club globally across domestic and league cup fixtures, with hundreds of millions of fans and over 330 Official Liverpool Supporters Clubs across the globe.

Junko Sakihara, Deputy Senior Vice President – Customer Experience at Japan Airlines, said: "This partnership is significant for us because it will allow us to deepen connections with our customers and develop new relationships with Liverpool FC fans around the world. We feel incredibly fortunate to be embarking on this exciting journey with the Liverpool FC and the LFC Foundation." 

Liverpool FC and Japan Airlines Embark on a Journey of Purpose

Bankruptcy helped lead the way to the first female boss at Japan Airlines

The seeds of former flight attendant Mitsuko Tottori's rise to the top of Japan Airlines were planted in the aftermath of the carrier's bankruptcy more than a decade ago, reports  Maki Shiraki and Anton Bridge of Reuters. 

Tottori, who rose through the ranks from cabin crew to chief customer officer, takes over as president of JAL in April, becoming one of the few women to lead a major global airline. Qantas has a woman boss and KLM and Air France are led by women who report to a male group CEO.

That ascent from cabin to boardroom is notable in a country where advancement opportunities are still limited for women: Japan's gender wage gap is the worst among the Group of Seven (G7) countries.

"Her case shows that a woman who started her career from the lowest position could become the head of the firm. It serves as a great model for women's career development in Japanese companies," said Kumiko Nemoto, a professor of management at Tokyo's Senshu University, and author of a book on gender inequality.

While Tottori's nomination is a sign of change in Japan Inc, it also reflects JAL's sweeping organisational shift after a turnaround by industrialist Kazuo Inamori following its 2010 bankruptcy.

Inamori, the founder of electronics company Kyocera and mobile operator KDDI who died in 2022, was tapped by the government to revive JAL. Known in Japan as the "God of management", the ordained Buddhist monk prized hands-on experience and said the carrier long neglected customers.

Her appointment was proof "Inamori's philosophy of focusing on the frontline still exists at JAL," one JAL executive said. Disdainful of hierarchy and the unquestioning obedience to rules, Inamori encouraged all staff to act as business leaders, the executive said.

Reuters spoke to seven JAL and industry sources, all of whom declined to be identified so they could speak freely.

Japan Airlines A350 crash latest....

Local authorities in Japan issued confirmation that the Japan Airlines A350 had been cleared to land at Haneda International Airport in Tokyo. Seconds later it collided with a Coast Guard  Bombardier Dash-8 and erupted in flames, which should not have been on the runway, having been instructed to taxi to the holding point C5 and not cleared to enter the runway area. 

Five of the six crew members on the Coast Guard aircraft were killed in the crash, and the sixth,  the pilot escaped with some injuries.  The aircraft had been due to transport aid to regions hit by a 7.6 magnitude earthquake that struck Japan on Monday. 

 

The Ministry of Transport in Japan released a transcript that confirmed the A350 crew had been cleared to land:

JAL516:              17:43:02   "Tokyo Tower, JAL516 Spot 18"

Control Tower:    17:43:02    "JAL516 Tokyo Tower, good evening, Runway 34R, continue approach, wind 320/7, we have departure"

JAL516:              17:43:12    "JAL516 continue approach 34R"

Control Tower:    17:44:56    "JAL516 Runway 34R cleared to land, wind 310/8

JAL516:              17:45:01    "Cleared to land, runway 34R, JAL516"

JA722A:              17:45:11    "Tower, JA722A, C"

Control Tower:    17:45:11    "JA722A, Tokyo tower, good evening, No:1 taxi to holding point C5"

JA722A:              17:45:19    "Taxi to holding point C5, JA722A No:1, thank you" 

Japan Airlines flight details: 

Date and Time: January 2, 2024 (Tuesday) around 17:47 (JST)

Location: Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport), Runway C

Flight Number: JL516

Departure: New Chitose Airport - Scheduled departure time: 15:50 - Actual departure time: 16:15

Arrival: Haneda Airport - Scheduled arrival time: 17:35 - Actual arrival time: 17:47

Number of Passengers: 359 adults + 8 infants = 367 in total

Number of Crew: 3 cockpit crew members + 9 cabin crew members = 12 in total

Passenger Situation: 1 person with bruising, 13 people requested medical consultation due to physical 

discomfort

Aircraft Type and Registration: Airbus A350-900, Registration Number JA13XJ

Aircraft Condition: Total loss

The carrier released the following summary:

After departing from New Chitose Airport at 16:15 on January 2, the aircraft flew smoothly (*1), and after landing at Haneda Airport Runway C at 17:47 (*2), the aircraft collided with a Japan Coast Guard aircraft and caught fire. All passengers and crew members on our flight successfully performed an emergency evacuation (*3). Support is being provided to each passenger in terms of their condition and assistance for their return home.

Japan Airlines A350 collides with DHC-8 whilst landing in Tokyo.

The crew of a Japan Airlines aircraft are being hailed as heroes after all 367 passengers and 12 crew evacuated their Airbus A350 aircraft that burst into flames following a collision with another aircraft at the point of landing at  Haneda International Airport in Tokyo, earlier today.

Dramatic pictures and videos are flooding social media following the incident that clearly shows the aircraft erupting into flames as it travels down the runway. The initial fear from those on the ground, witnessing the disaster unfold from various points all over the airport would have been the certain death of all those onboard. However, whilst the videos and images show how the aircraft seemed to lose its nose gear, the plane came to a halt and all passengers and crew managed to escape the burning craft. 

Video from inside the A350 shows the orange glow of flames lighting up the windows and the cabin start to fill with light smoke as the stricken aeroplane continues down the runway.  Passengers seemed on the whole to be calm initially and then the evacuation took place. According to officials, nobody suffered serious injury during the crash or the evacuation.

The A350-900 operated by Japan Airlines was operating flight JAL516 from Sapporo New Chitose Airport to Haneda International Airport when it collided with a Coastguard DHC-8 aircraft whilst landing in Haneda.  The incident occurred shortly after 17:47 local time on 02 January 2024 and all 367 passengers and 12 crew members on board evacuated the A350,  whilst Japanese authorities have now confirmed five of the six people on board the DHC-8 did not survive.

The A350 aircraft involved in the accident, registered under the number JA13XJ, was MSN 538, and delivered to Japan Airlines from the production line on 10 November 2021. It was powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines.

Japan Airlines issued the following statement:  "We regret to inform you that on the evening of January 2nd, JL516 was involved in a collision with a Japan Coast Guard aircraft during its landing at Haneda Airport, resulting in a fire on the runway. Our thoughts and prayers are with the deceased members of the Japan Coast Guard. We want to assure you that all passengers and crew on our flight were safely evacuated.

We would like to extend our sincerest apologies for the distress and inconvenience caused to our passengers, their families, and all those affected by this incident. We would like to assure you that we will provide our full cooperation in the investigation of this unfortunate event."

Plane maker Airbus issued the following statement "In line with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex 13 recommendations, Airbus will provide technical assistance to the Bureau d’Enquêtes et d’Analyses (BEA) of France and to the Japan Transport Safety Board (JTSB) in charge of the investigation. For this purpose, Airbus is presently dispatching a team of specialists to assist the Authorities.

Further updates will be provided as soon as consolidated information is available and Airbus is authorised to release them.

Our concerns and sympathy go to the families, friends and loved ones affected by the accident."

The remarkable evacuation of all passengers and crew from the A350 is amazing and is a testament to the way the A350 is constructed.  With its carbon fibre composites and different manufacturing, the plane seems to have held up very well following the collision and subsequent fire which undoubtedly gave those on board more time to escape down the evacuation chutes.  According to local news outlets, only 17 people sustained minor injuries during the evacuation. 

Whilst the exact cause is not yet known and an investigation has been started, preliminary reports indicate the pilots of the Japan Airlines flight did not spot any other aircraft on the runway prior to landing.  Tadayuki Tsutsumi, Japan Airlines senior vice president of corporate safety and security commented the plane “entered the runway as normal and began landing as normal and that there was an impact, which led to the accident, but we are still investigating further details.”

Senior Vice President of Japan Airlines Noriyuki Aoki appeared to blame the flight crew for the disaster at a press conference on Tuesday evening, saying “However, I can't say at this time if they [Japan Airlines crew] were cleared to land, or if they communicated with ATC, because that is a fundamental factor in the cause of the accident, and we are still trying to confirm that,” 

Video content from BBC News

Airbus to send specialists to Japan in wake of A350 crash

The European aircraft manufacturer, Airbus has confirmed it will be sending specialists to Japan after one of its A350 jets burst into flames on the runway following a collision with another aircraft.

The A350-900 operated by Japan Airlines was operating flight JAL516 from Sapporo New Chitose Airport to Haneda International Airport when it collided with a DHC-8 aircraft whilst landing in Haneda.  All 367 passengers and 12 crew members on board evacuated the A350,  whilst Japanese authorities have now confirmed five of the six people on board the DHC-8 did not survive.

The aircraft involved in the accident, registered under the number JA13XJ, was MSN 538, delivered to Japan Airlines from the production line on 10 November 2021. It was powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines.

Airbus said in a statement "In line with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex 13 recommendations, Airbus will provide technical assistance to the Bureau d’Enquêtes et d’Analyses (BEA) of France and to the Japan Transport Safety Board (JTSB) in charge of the investigation. For this purpose, Airbus is presently dispatching a team of specialists to assist the Authorities."

Adding "Our concerns and sympathy go to the families, friends and loved ones affected by the accident."

Japan Airlines takes delivery of its first A350-1000

Japan Airlines (JAL) has taken delivery of its first A350-1000 from Airbus’ delivery centre in Toulouse, France. The A350-1000 is set to become the airline’s new international aircraft, initially flying on the prestigious Tokyo Haneda - New York JFK route.

JAL’s A350 is configured in four classes. The First Class features six Suites, each with a choice of three modes: sofa, seat and single bed or double bed. The Business Class also offers Suites, with 54 seats and privacy doors. Meanwhile, the Premium Economy Class (24 seats) and Economy Class (155 seats) both feature more personal space and comfort in their respective categories.

JAL’s A350-1000 cabin has been designed to make passengers immerse in the elegance of Japanese aesthetics and tranquillity. Meanwhile, a serene ambience highlights the beauty of Japan. The cabin’s stylish interior is tailored to a high quality, high comfort passenger experience which echoes JAL’s renowned service.

JAL has ordered 31 A350 aircraft, comprising 18 A350-900s and 13 A350-1000s. The carrier has been operating the A350-900 on high-density Japanese domestic routes since 2019.

The A350 is the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft and the long-range leader in the 300-410 seater category. The A350’s clean sheet design includes state-of-the-art technologies and aerodynamics delivering unmatched standards of efficiency and comfort.

The A350’s unique Airspace cabin is the quietest of any twin-aisle in the sky. It offers passengers and crews the latest modern in-flight products for the most comfortable flying experience. The aircraft’s new-generation engines and use of lightweight materials make it the most fuel-efficient large widebody aircraft. The A350 is the quietest aircraft in its class featuring a 50 percent noise footprint reduction versus the previous generation aircraft, making it a good airport neighbour wherever it flies.

By the end of November 2023, the A350 Family has won 1,070 firm orders from 57 customers worldwide, making it one of the most successful widebody aircraft ever.