Japan Airlines Completes Farewell to Boeing 777-200ER Fleet in November 2023

Japan Airlines (JL), based in Tokyo Haneda, officially concluded its scheduled operations of the Boeing 777-200ER on November 12, 2023. A poignant farewell ceremony for this aircraft type was held on October 26, marking the end of an era for the airline.

The final journey was undertaken by the carrier’s last remaining B777-200ER aircraft, registered as JA703J (msn 32891). This 20.8-year-old jet, delivered to JAL in 2003, accommodates up to 312 passengers, including 26 in business class. Operating its last commercial flight between Tokyo Haneda and Okinawa Naha, the aircraft has been a stalwart for domestic services, connecting major cities such as Sapporo Chitose, Nagoya Chubu, and Fukuoka.

Japan Airlines had a fleet of eleven B777-200ERs, all of which have now been retired. The retirement of these aircraft is part of JAL’s broader strategy, which involved the phase-out of all B777-200s and B777-300(ER)s by April 2021 due to concerns related to the Pratt & Whitney PW4000 engine issues.

Originally slated for retirement in September 2023, the airline postponed the process to November 2023 to ensure operational continuity, particularly during the typhoon season.

This move not only reflects Japan Airlines’ commitment to safety and reliability but also marks a transition to a more modern and efficient fleet, with the carrier continuing its operations with a fleet of thirteen B777-300(ER) aircraft.