JAL Set to Retire Last Remaining 777-200ER

Japan Airlines is planning to remove its last remaining 777-200ER aircraft from scheduled service later this year. One of the early adopters of Boeing’s 777, JAL has used the aircraft type for both short and long haul operations.

The airline has phased out its 777-200ER fleet in recent years as newer A350-900 aircraft come online to backfill the carrier’s high-capacity domestic operations. In May, the airline retired its second-to-last 777-200ER aircraft JA701J, according to AeroTime.

Data from ch-aviation shows that JAL began operating the 777-200ER variant in 2002 before phasing them out in 2020. Prior to retirement, the Japanese carrier had 26 777-200 aircraft in its fleet, most of which were over 20 years old.

JAL also has a fleet of 13 777-300ER aircraft, which serve long-haul markets. These are also set to be replaced by the airline’s new ‘flagship’ A350-1000.

The Last 777-200ER

The airline has kept one 777-200ER flying, which is registered as JA703J. The nearly 21-year-old aircraft continues to fly regular domestic flights.

According to data from Cirium Diio, JA703J’s last flight will be on Sunday, Nov. 12, 2023 from Okinawa to Tokyo (Haneda) as JL916. Throughout November, the airline will continue to operate the aircraft between Okinawa-Tokyo and Sapporo-Tokyo.

Special Flights

JAL is planning one-time charter flights to Victorville, Calif. on JA703J for enthusiasts. The aircraft will be retired at the Southern California Logistics Airport (VCV) storage facility.

On Dec. 12, 2023, the airline’s last 777-200 is set to ferry from Tokyo to the U.S. According to the airline, those interested in participating in the ferry flight can sign up to participate here.

Editor’s Note: This story as updated on Saturday, Oct. 28, 2023 at 11:55 a.m. ET to reflect JAL’s correct 777-200 fleet count.

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Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.

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