In response to pressure from the Japanese government, Japan Airlines (JAL) is proposing stricter measures to address alcohol-related incidents involving its pilots. The move follows a series of events that led to dismissals, flight disruptions, and official reprimands.
The airline plans to implement increased liver function testing for pilots identified as high-risk. According to Kyodo News, those whose results do not meet a set standard may face suspension. This new policy comes after Japan’s transport ministry ordered the carrier to establish more rigorous protocols for pilot intoxication. JAL is currently developing the framework for this testing in consultation with stakeholders.
This proposal follows a previously rejected plan that would have required pilots with a history of alcohol-related issues to sign a pledge of abstinence.
The government’s intervention was prompted by several high-profile incidents. In April 2024, a JAL flight from Dallas to Tokyo was canceled after the captain was reported for drunk and disorderly conduct at his hotel, requiring police intervention.
Later, in December 2024, a flight from Melbourne to Tokyo was delayed by three hours because two pilots had consumed alcohol beyond the company’s limits. Both pilots were subsequently fired, and senior executives received a pay cut.
Another incident in August 2025 involved a captain on a flight from Honolulu to Nagoya who admitted to drinking before his duty. The admission caused delays for three flights, two of which were postponed by approximately 18 hours. This pilot was also terminated, and the airline’s leadership again faced salary reductions.
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