JAL - Japan Airlines (JL, Tokyo Haneda) intends to begin operating B767-300ER(BCF) flights on February 19, 2024, according to a December 5 statement from the airline. The flights, which remain subject to government approval, will mark the carrier's return to dedicated freighter operations after a 13-year absence.

While Japan Airlines is yet to disclose any details, the first of three B767 freighters it intends to introduce, ch-aviation fleets data reveals, is JA653J (msn 40365), a 13.02-year-old B767-300(ER) undergoing conversion at Singapore Paya Lebar. A second out-of-service Japan Airlines passenger-configured B767-300(ER) - JA654J (msn 40366) - is also at Singapore Paya Lebar, while a third, JA619J (msn 37550), is at Guangzhou.

"The operation of the freighters will enhance stable and flexible air transportation capabilities, ensuring a steady supply," the airline's statement reads. "Furthermore, the development of a network strategy based on growing demand will ensure the satisfaction of customer needs and contribute to the sustainable development of the logistics infrastructure."

The initial schedule for the freighter operations show flights scheduled to depart from Tokyo Narita and Nagoya Chubu. Scheduled freighter flights will link both airports with Taipei Taoyuan, Seoul Incheon, and Shanghai Pudong.