Japan Airlines (JAL) has announced the addition of 17 more Boeing 737-8 aircraft to its fleet, following an earlier order of 21 aircraft in March 2023. These new single-aisle jets will gradually replace the existing Boeing 737-800s currently operating mainly on domestic routes, marking a significant step in JAL's fleet modernisation strategy.
Alongside the expansion of the domestic fleet, JAL plans to introduce 11 Airbus A321neo aircraft to replace its ageing Boeing 767s, particularly on routes to and from Tokyo Haneda Airport. This move is aimed at aligning the fleet with demand while improving profitability through more efficient operations.
Japan Airlines is also investing heavily in its international network, with plans to bring in ten Boeing 787-9 aircraft and 20 Airbus A350-900s. In addition, its low-cost carrier subsidiary ZIPAIR will operate Boeing 787-9s by reallocating aircraft from JAL's existing fleet. By the 2030 fiscal year, JAL expects its international business to grow by around 1.5 times compared to 2023 levels, with particular emphasis on expanding services to North America and Asia. This growth will be supported by larger aircraft, providing increased capacity and improved passenger comfort.
With these new additions, the JAL Group's fleet will reach approximately 90 aircraft. The airline is focused on maintaining flexibility in its fleet planning to support long-term growth beyond 2030 by placing orders early.
Japan Airlines also highlights its commitment to sustainability and service enhancement. By introducing the latest generation of fuel-efficient aircraft, the airline aims to reduce CO2 emissions and contribute to a more sustainable future while simultaneously improving the passenger experience. This fleet renewal programme reflects JAL's strategic ambition to strengthen its domestic and international operations while prioritising environmental responsibility.
