Japan Airlines Cuts Executive Pay Over Pilot Alcohol Scandal
Japan Airlines has announced sweeping pay cuts for 37 top executives, including President Mitsuko Tottori, in response to a serious alcohol-related incident involving one of its captains at Honolulu International Airport. The move follows a formal reprimand from Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism and underscores the airline’s attempt to restore public trust after repeated violations.
The incident occurred on August 28, 2025, when the 64-year-old captain scheduled to operate JL793 from Honolulu to Chubu Centrair admitted to heavy drinking the night before his duty. He reported sick on the day of departure, forcing last-minute crew reassignments and triggering delays of up to 18 hours across three flights, affecting around 630 passengers. The captain was dismissed on September 11 as a disciplinary measure.
As part of the company’s response, President Tottori will take a 30% pay cut for two months. Chief Safety Officer Yukio Nakagawa and Flight Operations Head Masaki Minami will each see their pay reduced by 20% for one month, while 34 other executives will receive 10% cuts. JAL emphasized these measures are intended to reinforce its safety-first culture and signal accountability at the highest level.
Japan’s transport ministry has warned JAL over inadequate internal controls for the second time in less than a year and is considering administrative penalties against the dismissed pilot. In a press conference, Tottori apologized and pledged stricter monitoring systems, enhanced training, and tighter compliance checks to prevent future lapses and rebuild passenger confidence.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, aviationa2z.com