What we know about the Japan Airlines crash
In a devastating incident at Tokyo's Haneda Airport, a Japan Airlines (JAL) Airbus A350 collided with a coast guard aircraft, leading to a tragic outcome and a miraculous escape. The JAL flight, arriving from Sapporo, had been cleared to land on runway C when it tragically collided with the smaller coast guard plane, a Bombardier Dash-8, which was preparing to deliver earthquake relief supplies.
The smaller aircraft burst into flames, tragically claiming the lives of five of its six crew members. The sole survivor was the coast guard plane's captain, who sustained serious injuries. Meanwhile, all 379 passengers and crew aboard the JAL flight managed a miraculous escape, evacuating the burning plane minutes before it was engulfed in flames. The quick evacuation was facilitated by the cabin crew's rapid response and the passengers' adherence to safety instructions, including leaving behind their hand luggage, a factor often cited as critical in successful emergency evacuations.
The aftermath of the collision has sparked a thorough investigation into its causes. Initial reports indicate a possible discrepancy in the clearance given to the coast guard aircraft. While the coast guard pilot claimed to have received takeoff clearance, air traffic control had reportedly instructed the aircraft to stop short of the runway.
This incident has raised significant questions about runway safety and communication protocols. Tokyo’s Metropolitan Police Department is investigating the possibility of professional negligence. The Japan Safety Transport Board (JTSB) is conducting an independent inquiry, with involvement from French and British authorities due to the multinational nature of the Airbus aircraft.
The collision at Haneda Airport, one of the busiest in Japan, particularly during the New Year travel period, led to widespread disruptions. Approximately 100 flights were canceled, affecting 19,000 passengers, and additional bullet train services were scheduled to accommodate stranded travelers.
