Aviation Safety Day

What Is Aviation Safety Day?

August 12th is "Aviation Safety Day" in Japan. On August 12, 1985, Japan Airlines Flight 123 (a Boeing 747), flying from Haneda to Osaka (Itami), crashed in the mountains of Ueno Village, Gunma Prefecture, on a ridge known as "Osutaka no One," killing 520 of the 524 people on board. The day is observed to remember the accident, reflect on aviation safety, and mourn the victims. It is also called "Akanegumo-ki" (Crimson Cloud Memorial), after the title of a collection of messages edited by the "8.12 Liaison Group" formed by bereaved families.

The Crash of Japan Airlines Flight 123

The crash of JAL Flight 123 is regarded as the deadliest single-aircraft accident in aviation history.

• What happened: Flight 123 took off from Haneda at 6:12 p.m. and became uncontrollable over Sagami Bay 12 minutes after takeoff. After flying for about 30 more minutes, it crashed at 6:56 p.m.
• Survivors: There were four survivors.
• The shock to society: The flight fell during the evening rush and the Obon holiday travel season, and many people died, including well-known figures such as singer Sakamoto Kyū. The accident deeply shocked all of Japan.

The Cause

According to the report released in 1987 by Japan's Aircraft Accident Investigation Commission, a crack in the rear pressure bulkhead spread until the bulkhead failed, and the cabin air rushing out blew away the vertical tail and other parts. The bulkhead's weakness was attributed to an improper repair carried out by Boeing after a 1978 incident.

Things to Know About Aviation Safety Day

• A day of remembrance: Every August 12th, bereaved families climb to the Osutaka ridge, and a memorial ceremony is held at the "Irei no Sono" memorial park in Ueno Village.
• A facility that passes on the lessons: In 2006, Japan Airlines opened its Safety Promotion Center, which displays wreckage from the aircraft and victims' belongings and is used in employee training.
• Lessons for safety: The accident led to a review of how aircraft repairs and inspections are managed. Its records and lessons are still passed on in training for aviation professionals.

How to Observe the Day

• Read records and materials about the JAL Flight 123 accident to learn what happened
• At 6:56 p.m., observe a moment of silence for the victims
• Reflect on whether you are skipping any "routine checks" in your own work

Safety Is Built on the Lessons of the Past

The safety of the planes we use every day is supported by lessons learned from past accidents. August 12th is a day to remember the 520 people who lost their lives and to reflect on the importance of safety.