Cyberattack Disrupts Japan Airlines Flights Amid Growing Cybersecurity Concerns

Japan Airlines (JAL), the country’s second-largest airline, suffered a major cyberattack early Thursday morning, leading to significant disruptions in both domestic and international flight operations.

The attack, which occurred at 7:24 AM local time (2224 GMT), targeted JAL’s internal and external network systems, causing widespread malfunctions that impacted communication and operational workflows.

In a statement shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), JAL confirmed the breach:
“We have been under cyberattack on our internal and external network devices, causing problems with the systems that communicate with external systems. We expect this to affect both domestic and international flights.”

The airline apologized for the disruption and assured passengers that efforts were underway to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

Delays and Broader Implications

As of now, nine flights have been delayed, with additional disruptions expected. A JAL spokesperson acknowledged the potential for further delays or cancellations but did not provide specifics on the extent of the operational impact.

This incident underscores the rising cybersecurity threats facing Japan’s aviation sector and broader critical infrastructure. JAL joins a growing list of Japanese companies that have recently been targeted by cyberattacks.

In 2022, a cyberattack on a Toyota supplier temporarily halted production at domestic plants. Similarly, in June 2024, the video-sharing platform Niconico suspended its services following a large-scale breach.

Globally, the aviation industry has become a prime target for cybercriminals, given its reliance on interconnected digital systems for essential processes such as ticketing, scheduling, and baggage handling.

Investigation and Passenger Guidance

While the perpetrators and specific nature of the attack remain undisclosed, JAL has stated it is working closely with cybersecurity experts and authorities to mitigate the impact and secure its systems. Experts caution that such attacks, if not addressed swiftly, could lead to compromised sensitive data or prolonged service disruptions.

Passengers are encouraged to check JAL’s official website or contact customer service for real-time updates on flight schedules and potential delays. The airline has pledged to keep travelers informed as new information becomes available.

A Call for Heightened Cybersecurity

Established in 1951, Japan Airlines is a pillar of Japan’s aviation industry, operating a fleet that serves over 90 destinations worldwide.

This cyberattack serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by critical industries in an increasingly digital world. As investigations continue, it underscores the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect vital infrastructure from evolving threats.