Today marks the 26th anniversary of Japan Airlines (JAL) flight 123 accident. It is still the world's most deadly single-aircraft accident till today. 524 passengers and crew members were killed with only 4 survivors when the 747 lost control and crashed into Ridge of Osutaka at 6:56PM. Investigation showed the accident was caused by faulty repair conducted by Boeing.

Nikkei Business Daily has reported yet another Japan Airlines (JAL) low cost carrier (LCC) rumor today. According to the paper, JAL and Jetstar will set up a new Narita (NRT) based LCC together with Mitsubishi and this new LCC will start operations by December 2012.

Japan Airlines (JAL) has rolled out an added benefits for JGC members and members with FLY ON service status. From Aug 1 2011, they will be able to enjoy extra benefits when staying at participating JW Marriott, Renaissance Hotels, and Marriott Hotels & Resorts in Asia Pacific region (Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Philippines, and Vietnam) with eligible rate plans (those eligible for JMB miles).

Japan Airlines may (JAL) seek joint venture agreement with Air France (AF) to bolster its European operations. According to the Bloomberg report, JAL will seek other JBV opportunities in Europe if the JBV with British Airways (BA) cannot cover the entire Europe.

We knew Japan Airlines (JAL) is going to has an operating profit this quarter because JAL President told the press about it last month during the monthly press conference. We just didn't know how much. And they finally reveal it today! JAL made a 12.7 billion yen net profit and 17.1 billion yen operating profit in the first quarter of fiscal year 2011! And guess what? Although All Nippon Airways (ANA), JAL's direct competitor, had a much lower drop in passenger numbers than JAL, they still saw an 8.4 billion yen loss :p Below are some highlights of the first quarter results.