TOKYO- Japan Airlines (JAL) has reduced the pay of its top executives, including President Mitsuko Tottori, following a serious alcohol-related incident involving one of its captains at Honolulu International Airport (HNL). The decision comes after Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism issued a formal reprimand to the airline.
The dismissed captain, previously assigned to operate JL793 from Honolulu (HNL) to Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO), admitted to heavy drinking prior to duty on August 28, 2025. The misconduct caused delays of up to 18 hours, disrupting multiple flights and impacting around 630 passengers.
Photo: Aero Icarus | FlickrJapan Airlines Punishes 37 Employees
Japan Airlines dismissed the 64-year-old captain on September 11 as a disciplinary measure. In addition, the airline announced pay cuts for 37 executives as a sign of responsibility and to reinforce its safety-first commitment.
President Mitsuko Tottori will face a 30% salary reduction for two months. Managing Executive Officer and Chief Safety Officer Yukio Nakagawa, along with Masaki Minami, head of flight operations, will see their salaries cut by 20% for one month. The remaining 34 executives will have their pay reduced by 10% for one month.
The airline emphasized that this action is intended to restore public trust and strengthen internal oversight after repeated alcohol-related lapses among its flight crew.
Photo: Charles | FlickrDetails of the Incident
The captain scheduled to pilot JL793 consumed three bottles of 9.5% alcohol beer the evening before his duty.
On the day of departure, he reported sick, forcing Japan Airlines to reorganize crew assignments at short notice. This led to cascading delays across three flights, inconveniencing hundreds of passengers.
The incident marked the second alcohol-related violation involving JAL pilots within a year. Two other captains were involved in similar cases in December 2024, prompting growing concerns over the airline’s management and supervision systems.
Government Response
On September 10, Japan’s transport ministry summoned JAL’s chief safety officer and issued a stern warning, citing inadequate internal controls. This was the second official reprimand delivered to JAL in less than a year, underlining the seriousness of the violation.
The ministry also confirmed that administrative penalties against the dismissed captain are under consideration. Officials stressed that strict compliance with alcohol policies is non-negotiable in ensuring aviation safety, Japan Times reported.
Photo: Clément AlloingJAL’s Public Apology and Reforms
In a press conference, JAL President Mitsuko Tottori publicly apologized for the incident and pledged tighter enforcement of pre-flight alcohol and health checks. She acknowledged the gravity of repeated violations and confirmed that new monitoring systems will be introduced to prevent recurrence.
The airline stated that it would review its supervisory framework, increase training programs, and implement stricter compliance checks for crew members.
The move signals JAL’s commitment to rebuilding passenger confidence and addressing concerns raised by regulators.
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