Japan Airlines issued a public apology after a drunk pilot caused the delay of three flights, prompting a second reprimand from the transport ministry within a year. The incident occurred on August 28 when a pilot consumed excessive alcohol in Hawaii, rendering him unable to operate his flight to Nagoya, Japan, the following day. One of the affected flights was delayed for up to 18 hours, creating significant inconvenience for passengers.
Japan Airlines president Mitsuko Tottori held a news conference to apologize, emphasizing that the airline takes the situation extremely seriously. The transport ministry also summoned the airline’s chief safety officer, Yukio Nakagawa, and issued him a written warning. This is not the first time the carrier has faced issues with intoxicated crew. In December, after two pilots drank excessively before a flight from Melbourne to Narita—causing a three‑hour delay—the airline banned all alcohol consumption by flight crew during overnight work stays and received a warning at that time.
Transport Minister Hiromasa Nakano expressed frustration over the repeat incident, criticizing the airline’s failure to thoroughly educate its employees on safety matters. The airline’s history includes a 2018 case in which a Japan Airlines pilot was arrested in Britain for being almost ten times over the legal blood‑alcohol limit shortly before a flight.
In response, Japan Airlines pledged to strengthen its checks on alcohol use and staff health. President Mitsuko Tottori said the company will implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The transport ministry’s warning underscores the importance of strict safety protocols in the aviation industry and highlights the need for airlines to prioritize the safety and well‑being of both passengers and staff.
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