Japan Airlines Receives Another Warning Following Flight Delays Caused by Drunk Pilot
Japan Airlines (JAL) has been hit with its second government reprimand in less than a year due to a drunk pilot causing significant flight disruptions on August 28, 2025. This incident led to the delay of three flights from Honolulu to Japan, with two experiencing delays of up to 18 hours, affecting approximately 630 passengers.
The pilot in question, a captain scheduled to fly from Honolulu to Chubu Centrair International Airport, had consumed three bottles of beer at his hotel the night before his flight. He reported in sick on the day of departure and later confessed to drinking, which necessitated the arrangement of replacement crew and resulted in cascading delays.
JAL President Mitsuko Tottori issued a public apology, acknowledging this was the latest in a series of alcohol-related incidents. Despite the airline having implemented stricter policies including 24-hour alcohol bans for crew and mandatory breathalyzer tests, violations continue to occur.
In response to the incident, Japan’s transport ministry conducted surprise inspections and summoned JAL’s chief safety officer for an official warning.
Source: The Japan Times