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Japan Airlines safety rating

Japan Airlines scores 9.2 / 10 on the CalmFlights safety index, based on fatal-accident history, fleet age, pilot training hours and independent audits.

Safety rating
9.2/10
Fatal accidents (jet era)
1
Fleet size
230
Years operating
75

Why nervous flyers ask about Japan Airlines

JAL has gone four decades without a fatal passenger incident. After 1985 it fundamentally reformed its safety culture — now considered a global benchmark alongside Qantas and Cathay.

By the numbers

  • Founded: 1951 (75 years operating)
  • Fleet size: 230 aircraft
  • Average fleet age: 11.0 years
  • Cumulative flights flown: 7.5 million
  • Fatal accidents (jet era): 1
  • Years since last fatal incident: 40
  • Average pilot command hours: 14,000
  • Certifications: IOSA certified · 7-star AirlineRatings
  • Incidents in the last 5 years: 0

How it compares

A safety rating of 9.2 places Japan Airlines in the top tier worldwide. The global average for IOSA-certified airlines hovers around 8.4.

What this means for you

Japan Airlines has not had a fatal passenger incident in over 40 years. Modern operating procedures, equipment and training are very different from when those older events occurred.

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Data accuracy: Figures above are compiled from publicly reported sources including the Aviation Safety Network, ICAO, EASA, FAA and airline annual reports. Numbers are refreshed periodically and may lag recent events by several months. For authoritative accident-investigation conclusions, consult the relevant national investigation board (NTSB, BEA, AAIB, JTSB, TSB Canada, etc).

Frequently asked questions

Is Japan Airlines safe to fly?
Yes. Japan Airlines scores 9.2/10 on the CalmFlights safety index. It has had 1 fatal jet-era incident, with the last 40 years ago. Pilot command hours average 14,000, and the airline holds IOSA certified · 7-star AirlineRatings certifications.
When was Japan Airlines founded?
Japan Airlines was founded in 1951 and has been operating for 75 years. It currently flies a fleet of 230 aircraft with an average age of 11.0 years.
How does Japan Airlines's safety record compare to other airlines?
Japan Airlines's safety rating of 9.2 places it in the top tier worldwide. The global average for IOSA-certified airlines is around 8.4. Over 7.5 million cumulative flights, the carrier has had 1 fatal incident.
How old is Japan Airlines's fleet?
Japan Airlines's fleet averages 11.0 years old. This is around the global average; older aircraft are still extremely well-maintained under strict regulatory inspection cycles.
How many incidents has Japan Airlines had recently?
Japan Airlines has reported 0 non-fatal operational incidents in the last 5 years. Note that "incident" in aviation often means minor events like engine warnings or runway excursions — most never reach passenger awareness. The fatal-accident count remains a more meaningful safety signal.