A Japan Airlines plane burst into flames at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, following a collision with a Coast Guard aircraft.
According to reports, the Japan Airlines was in a daily afternoon domestic route departing from Sapporo New Chitose Airport (RJCC) bound for Tokyo Haneda International Airport (RJTT).
Onboard the plane were 367 passengers and 12 crew members, setting the stage for a tragedy that would unfold during what seemed to be an otherwise routine 1-hour and 20-minute flight.
As the Airbus A350 approached Haneda Airport, the routine landing took a tragic turn.
Videos and Photos
Cameras capturing the incident revealed the initial landing of the aircraft was uneventful, only to be followed by a sudden fire.
Also, eyewitnesses on the ground described the scene as the A350, a two-year-old aircraft with registration JA13XJ, was engulfed in flames on the runway.
Despite the fierce blaze, everyone on board the JAL flight managed to evacuate before the Airbus A350 was entirely destroyed and transported to health facilities.
However, at least five passengers aboard the second aircraft were reported to have been killed in the accident.
Firefighting crews at the airport arrived at the scene to control the fire.
Also Read: Most Offensive and Annoying Airplane Behaviors
The aircraft, on a mission to deliver aid to Niigata Air Base following a recent earthquake in the Noto Peninsula, suffered significant damage.
The collision and its aftermath have drawn attention not only due to the loss of life but also because this marks the first hull loss of an Airbus A350, known for its advanced technology and safety features.
Local media coverage and social media posts captured the intensity of the incident, with videos and images circulating widely.
Japan Airlines Investigations
The public opinion on the accident manifested concerns for the safety of air travel, prompting aviation authorities to launch investigations into the cause of the collision and subsequent fire.
Japan Airlines is now faced with the daunting task of unraveling the details and circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
Also Read: Kenya Airways Plane to Kigali, Rwanda Forced Back to JKIA
The repercussions of this incident extend beyond the immediate tragedy, affecting air travel in the region.
Haneda Airport experienced widespread cancellations, leaving passengers stranded and uncertain about the resumption of flight services.
The investigation into the collision remains ongoing, and authorities are expected to provide updates as they unravel the complexities of this unfortunate episode.