JAL Group Implements Leadership Changes Following Pilot Drinking Incident

In the wake of a recent pilot drinking incident, Japan Airlines (JAL) Group made the decision to adjust its top management team. These changes were officially announced after a board meeting held on February 4, 2025, demonstrating the company’s commitment to upholding safety standards and improving customer service. Pilotcenter.net News reports that the group has released a statement highlighting their dedication to ensuring the highest levels of safety in all flight operations.

The new assignments include adjustments for key executives within the company. Yuji Akasaka, who currently holds the position of Representative Director-Chairperson, will continue in this role but with a renewed focus on chairing board meetings. Meanwhile, Yukio Nakagawa will transition from Executive Officer to Managing Executive Officer, taking on responsibilities related to corporate safety and security, family assistance, and support.

Munekazu Tachibana, also a Managing Executive Officer, will now serve as an Executive Officer with a special assignment as a Special Assistant to the President. Additionally, Noriko Ogawa joins the team as an Executive Officer overseeing procurement and general affairs.

This decision comes after reports surfaced in January 2025 regarding pay reductions for top executives linked to a drinking incident involving JAL pilots the previous December. Among those executives facing disciplinary actions were JAL President Mitsuko Tottori and Chairperson Yuji Akasaka. This incident, which occurred on December 1, 2024, resulted in flight JL 774 from Melbourne Airport to Tokyo’s Narita Airport being delayed for over three hours due to pilots testing above the alcohol limit.

This isn't the first time JAL has faced repercussions related to alcohol consumption by its staff. In 2018, following a similar incident, the company's actions included pay cuts for management personnel, with Akasaka being one of the executives affected.

These recent changes in leadership aim to reinforce the company's dedication to safety, customer service, and overall corporate value. Stay tuned for further updates on how JAL continues to prioritize excellence in all aspects of its operations.