Earlier today, an Airbus A350-941 aircraft, operated by Japan Airlines (JAL) and registered as JA13XJ, collided with a Japan Coast Guard aircraft upon landing at Tokyo Haneda Airport.
The ground incident was confirmed by the Japanese carrier in a statement: “On the evening of January 2nd, Flight JL516 collided with a Japan Coast Guard aircraft during its landing at Haneda Airport, leading to a fire on the runway.”
Flight JL-516, which originated from Sapporo New Chitose Airport, was carrying 367 passengers and 12 crew members at the time of the collision.
JAL expressed their condolences for the deceased members of the Japan Coast Guard and assured that all passengers and crew on their flight were safely evacuated.
Emergency responders were quick to react to the fire. According to an airline official, all 379 passengers and crew were safely evacuated. However, the Tokyo Fire Department reported that 14 people from the JAL flight sustained injuries during the evacuation process.
The other aircraft involved in the collision was a De Havilland Canada DHC-8-315Q MPA of the Japan Coast Guard, registered as JA722A. This Q300 aircraft, carrying six people, was on a mission to deliver supplies to earthquake-stricken regions of Japan.
Tragically, only one crew member aboard the coast guard aircraft managed to escape, albeit in critical condition. Later on, reports from state broadcaster NHK confirmed the unfortunate demise of the remaining five crew members.
In response to the incident, Tokyo Haneda Airport issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), announcing the closure of the aerodrome until at least 10:00 PM (JST).
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