NEW YORK- Japan Airlines (JL) is assessing operational disruptions after a ground collision at John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York (JFK). The incident involved a parked Japan Airlines aircraft and an Airbus A330 chartered by Arkia Airlines (IZ) and operated by Hi Fly (5K).
The airline confirmed that several flights departing from or arriving at Haneda Airport in Tokyo (HND) will face significant delays as maintenance teams work on repairs.
Japan Airlines A350 Grounded
Here’s the thing. The incident occurred at about 00:40 on December 14, 2025. A Hi Fly Airbus A330, towed by ground staff, made unintended contact with the left-side cockpit window of a Japan Airlines A350 parked for routine maintenance at JFK. No passengers or crew were on either aircraft, and no injuries were reported.
What this really means is that Japan Airlines must repair the affected aircraft, which has triggered a series of downstream schedule changes. Despite efforts to minimize disruptions, the airline confirmed aircraft substitutions and delays across multiple international routes.
Arkia notified passengers and began rebooking them on alternative flights. Hi Fly will also supply a replacement aircraft so Arkia’s operations can resume without prolonged interruption.
Impact on Japan Airlines Operations
Japan Airlines listed 16 affected flights, with delays reaching up to 15 hours and 55 minutes. The disruptions span December 19 to December 22, and the airline noted that further changes could continue beyond December 23. A total of 3,144 passengers are impacted.
The delays primarily affect long-haul routes between Haneda and major international hubs, including London, New York, Singapore, Los Angeles, and Dallas-Fort Worth. The airline continues to update its operational status on its website as recovery efforts progress.
Flight Delay Summary
The published data includes the following delayed flights:
- JL043 Haneda London
- JL044 London Haneda
- JL006 Haneda New York
- JL005 New York Haneda
- JL037 Haneda Singapore
- JL036 Singapore Haneda
- JL016 Haneda Los Angeles
- JL015 Los Angeles Haneda
- JL012 Haneda Dallas Fort Worth
- JL011 Dallas Fort Worth Haneda
Maximum delay: 15 hours 55 minutes
Total delayed flights: 16
Total affected passengers: 3,144
Passenger Communication and Next Steps
Japan Airlines stated that customer and stakeholder understanding is appreciated as the airline works to restore normal operations.
Arkia passengers have already received updates, and rebooking efforts are underway. Both airlines expect to return to stable operations once repairs and fleet adjustments are completed.
Similar Incident
Japan Airlines or JAL and Delta Air Lines (DL) aircraft made contact while taxiing at Seattle Tacoma International Airport (SEA) on February 5, 2025. The JAL Boeing 787-9 arriving from Tokyo Narita NRT struck the tail of a parked Delta Boeing 737-800 preparing for departure.
The incident took place at 10:17 a.m. local time, prompting an immediate response by Port of Seattle emergency teams. Both flights carried full passenger loads and were supported by crews during safe deplaning and follow-up procedures.
Collision Details and Early Findings
The JAL 787-9 was taxiing to its gate after arriving from Tokyo Narita NRT with 172 passengers and 13 crew members when its right wingtip made contact with the tail of a stationary Delta 737-800.
The Delta aircraft was set for deicing before its scheduled service to Puerto Vallarta (PVR), carrying 142 passengers.
Emergency teams assisted both aircraft, ensuring orderly evacuation and follow-up checks. No injuries were reported.
Several passengers posted images and short clips online that showed the aftermath of the impact. Some described a sudden jolt, while others reported the aircraft shaking briefly before the captain explained the situation.
Passengers on the Delta aircraft were transported back to the terminal for rebooking, and Japan Airlines passengers were guided through standard post-incident procedures.
Airport Operations and Initial Response
Seattle Tacoma International Airport noted that operations remained stable because the collision occurred on a taxi lane rather than an active runway. No significant delays were reported, though travelers were advised to monitor airline updates.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that an investigation is underway. Officials are reviewing ground procedures, communication logs, and aircraft positioning to establish the sequence of events and identify possible contributing factors.
Airline Statements and Next Steps
Japan Airlines and Delta Air Lines acknowledged the incident but have not yet released detailed assessments of aircraft damage or the impact on upcoming flight schedules. Both carriers are cooperating with investigators.
Authorities will inspect the affected aircraft, evaluate maintenance requirements, and review safety protocols. Findings will be released once the FAA completes its assessment.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News
