Japan Airlines to Use Domestic Fleet for Growing International Routes
Japan Airlines (JAL) is exploring the use of its domestic-service aircraft for international operations to meet growing demand and improve fleet utilization, according to vice president for international route strategy, Abe Motohisa, speaking at the Routes Asia 2025 conference. The airline is considering using these aircraft, which are configured for domestic service, during nighttime hours on international routes.
The domestic-configured aircraft are expected to operate from secondary airports, such as Hiroshima International. However, the airline has not yet disclosed which aircraft would be used or when the expansion will take place. Abe noted that while the concept is being considered, challenges such as a shortage of available pilots could delay plans.
Japan Airlines currently operates a fleet of 199 aircraft and differentiates between its domestic- and international-configured jets. For example, its Boeing 787-8s, which are configured for both domestic and international routes, have varying cabin layouts. Domestic aircraft feature three-class cabins with 291 seats, while international aircraft have dual-class configurations with 186 or 206 seats.
Similarly, JAL’s Boeing 767-300ER fleet includes 16 aircraft configured for domestic flights with either 252 or 261 seats, and 8 aircraft configured for international routes with 199 seats. Additionally, its Boeing 737-800 fleet has different layouts, with domestic aircraft offering 20 business class seats and 145 economy seats, while international jets have 144 seats in a dual-class configuration.
These changes reflect Japan Airlines’ efforts to adapt its fleet to rising demand on international routes.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com