Japan Airlines Expands Fleet with 17 New Boeing 737-8 Aircraft

TOKYO, Japan (AP) – Japan Airlines (JAL) announced on March 19, 2025, that it will purchase 17 additional Boeing 737-8 aircraft as part of its ongoing fleet modernization efforts. This latest order follows a prior announcement made in March 2023 in which the airline committed to acquiring 21 of the same model to replace its aging Boeing 737-800 fleet primarily serving domestic routes.

In addition to the new Boeing jets, JAL plans to introduce 11 Airbus A321neo aircraft to replace its older Boeing 767s, especially on routes serving Tokyo‘s Haneda Airport. The airline is making these changes to enhance passenger comfort and align its fleet with current market demand.

On the international front, JAL is set to incorporate 10 Boeing 787-9 airplanes and 20 Airbus A350-900 aircraft into its operations, further expanding its global services. The airline’s investments aim to support its target of increasing its international business by 1.5 times by fiscal year 2030 compared to 2023.

According to JAL, the new additions will help increase capacity on profitable North American and Asian routes, reflecting a strategic focus on areas of high growth potential. As a result of this expansion, JAL’s total fleet will approach approximately 90 aircraft.

JAL’s fleet modernization strategy emphasizes sustainability. By integrating the latest generation of fuel-efficient aircraft, the airline aims to lower its CO2 emissions, aiding in the overall environmental impact of aviation.

“This fleet renewal is a crucial part of our long-term strategy to not only improve operational efficiency but also enhance customer experience,” said a JAL spokesperson. “We are committed to providing sustainable, modern, and comfortable travel options for our passengers.”

As Japan’s air travel demand continues to recover post-pandemic, JAL’s proactive approach reflects its anticipation of future growth in both domestic and international markets.

This latest aircraft order positions Japan Airlines to better serve travelers while maintaining a forward-looking commitment to evolving industry standards.