JAL trims flights, capacity
TOKYO – The JAL Group (JAL) is making temporary adjustments to its international flight frequency and fleet plan.
Flight frequency on two international routes – Tokyo (Narita) to Sao Paulo via New York, and Tokyo (Narita) to Shanghai, will be reduced for a period of two to three months between January and March 2010, when passenger demand on these routes is expected to be weak.
Capacity will also be lowered by downsizing the aircraft used on three other international routes between Tokyo and Beijing as well as Hong Kong for a similar length of time.
JAL said it aims to respond more sensitively to current market situations in order to improve profitability.
For customers who have already made reservations on flights that are subject to the change, alternative JAL flights with different timings will be offered.
Japan Airlines recently announced it has secured government approval for a loan that will allow it to continue flying.
This is the fourth time the troubled carrier has been bailed out by the state-run Development Bank of Japan since 2001.
The airline is struggling with big debts and a large pension fund deficit.
American Airlines and private equity firm TPG have offered $1.1bn (£659m) of investment to the struggling carrier.
American Airlines said the offer was “far superior” to the $1bn offered by rival Delta.
Both carriers are keen for a stake in the Asia Pacific market.
JAL has said it will make a decision on the bids by the end of the year.
Ian Jarrett
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