Transport Ministry Suspends Two Former Japan Airlines Captains for Excessive Drinking and Dishonesty

Japan’s transport ministry has taken firm action by suspending two former Japan Airlines pilots after it was revealed they had consumed alcohol at levels far exceeding company guidelines and failed to accurately report their intake. According to the administrative order under the Civil Aeronautics Law, the captain is suspended for 180 days, while the copilot faces a 210-day suspension.

The incident came to light following a flight from Melbourne to Narita on December 1, during which routine pre-departure checks uncovered alcohol in the pilots’ systems. It was found that the two had been drinking until 4 p.m. the previous day and had consumed roughly three times the acceptable limit—a fact they later attempted to hide by providing misleading information in interviews.

In addition to the evidence of excessive drinking, past issues with the copilot were also taken into account, with a previous incident from 2018 noted during the investigation. The case has prompted a broader review of safety practices within the airline.

Further reinforcing their commitment to operational safety, Japan Airlines has implemented disciplinary measures against eight of its executives. This includes a temporary pay cut for top officials and a significant reorganization of the safety management team, demonstrating a decisive move towards preventing future lapses in protocol.