Japan Transport Ministry Launches Emergency Probe into Japan Airlines After Six Safety Incidents

By Avinash VJ

Surprise Inspection

Safety in aviation is paramount worldwide, and upholding stringent standards is critical at all stages from design and manufacturing to operation and maintenance. In response to recent safety concerns, the Japanese transport ministry conducted a surprise inspection of Japan Airlines (JAL) facilities today. This inspection focused on the airline's daily flight operations and safety management practices at a corporate level.

The inspection comes after a series of incidents, including a notable collision involving a Japan Airlines Airbus A350 and a coast guard aircraft at Haneda Airport in Tokyo. This incident resulted in the deaths of five of the six crew members aboard the coast guard aircraft. The emergency inspection was carried out at JAL's facilities near the airport, with four ministry officials conducting hearings with airline staff. If any discrepancies are found, the ministry will direct the airline on necessary changes.

Transport Minister Tetsuo Saito emphasized the seriousness of the matter, stating, "We take this matter very seriously and will work hard to restore confidence in aviation."

This marks the first unannounced inspection at JAL since February, although several planned inspections have been conducted throughout the year.

Recent Incidents

1. A350 Collision at Haneda Airport

   • Yesterday, two Japan Airlines Airbus A350-900s experienced a minor collision at Haneda Airport. The incident, which occurred around 07:30, involved the left wingtip of one aircraft colliding with the right wingtip of another. Although no injuries were reported, the flight to New Chitose Airport was canceled as the aircraft involved was grounded.
   • The collision happened while one plane was being pushed back from its gate and the other was pulling into the adjacent gate. The plane pulling into its gate had no passengers onboard, but the airline had to delay the flight to swap the aircraft.

2. Runway Incident at Fukuoka Airport

   • A week ago, a Japan Airlines plane crossed a designated line onto a runway where another aircraft was in the process of taking off. Air traffic control intervened, instructing both planes to make emergency stops, preventing any injuries.
   • Following this incident, the transport ministry suggested a possible miscommunication. The Japan Airlines pilots were instructed to hold short of the runway but may have misunderstood the air traffic control instructions. The ministry will review recordings of the communication to determine the cause of the incident.
   • Japan Airlines issued an apology, stating, "We apologize for causing concerns. We will analyze the cause of the incident, including communications with air traffic control, under the guidance of the transport ministry and work to prevent a recurrence."

The inspection and the investigation into recent incidents highlight the ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance aviation safety standards. The ministry's actions demonstrate a commitment to addressing any safety lapses and ensuring the continued confidence of the public in air travel.