Japan's transport ministry has issued a business improvement advisory to All Nippon Airways Co (ANA) following two cases of improper conduct in aircraft maintenance that occurred last year, including an incident involving falsified records by a mechanic [1]. The advisory comes after a similar case of misconduct in 2024, prompting the ministry to conclude that ANA's oversight was insufficient and to demand improvements in its safety management structure. ANA is required to report back to the ministry by May 15 [1].
In response to the incidents, ANA and its parent company, ANA Holdings Inc, announced disciplinary measures against 50 executives for fiscal 2025. These measures include a one-month 30 percent pay cut for former president Shinichi Inoue and current president Juichi Hirasawa, who was the senior executive vice president at the time of the latest misconduct [1].
The specific incidents cited include a November 27, 2023 event at Itami airport, where a mechanic used oil prohibited under company regulations to refuel after replacing a brake valve. The mistake was discovered, but the mechanic falsified maintenance records and allowed the aircraft to operate without taking necessary corrective measures. Another incident on November 13, 2023, at Narita airport involved a mechanic who, after being informed of damage to a cargo compartment rail, deemed it a 'minor defect' without consulting relevant regulations. The aircraft was allowed to operate without repairs, despite the wear exceeding regulated limits. ANA has stated that neither incident affected flight safety [1].
These cases follow a stern warning issued by the ministry in October 2024 after a maintenance worker at Fukushima Airport failed to report and replace underinflated aircraft tires, also in violation of regulations. ANA has stated, 'We take this situation very seriously, as it occurred while corrective actions were being implemented. We will do our utmost to prevent a recurrence and restore trust,' and has committed to strengthening training for maintenance supervisors and increasing reporting channels [1].
CONCLUSION
The Japanese transport ministry's advisory highlights ongoing concerns about ANA's maintenance oversight and safety management. While ANA has taken disciplinary action and pledged further improvements, the incidents have prompted regulatory scrutiny and a mandate for enhanced safety protocols. The market impact is medium, reflecting the seriousness of the misconduct and the company's efforts to restore trust.