Japan Airlines (JAL) has expanded its commitment to Japanese winter sports after entering into a partnership agreement with the Ski Association of Japan (SAJ), becoming an official “ROYAL PARTNER” of the national governing body for skiing and snowboarding.
The partnership will support Japan’s national-team athletes and contribute to the development and international promotion of skiing and snowboarding. A particular focus will be placed on creating greater opportunities for emerging athletes to compete at domestic and international events.
Under the agreement, JAL will leverage its domestic and international network to support athletes travelling for competitions and training camps. The airline will also assist with the transportation of oversized sporting equipment, addressing a significant logistical challenge associated with international snow-sports competition.
The partnership extends beyond athlete logistics, with JAL and SAJ planning initiatives to promote Japan’s snow resources and destinations to audiences in Japan and overseas. The collaboration is expected to support winter tourism, regional economic activity and the wider development of Japan’s snow-sports ecosystem.
Mitsuko Tottori, President and Group CEO, Japan Airlines, said, “Through our support for numerous athletes and sports organisations, JAL actively encourages all athletes chasing their dreams. We are deeply honoured to enter into this partnership as a ‘ROYAL PARTNER’ of the Ski Association of Japan and to support these athletes on their journeys. Beyond providing safe and comfortable air travel, we aim to share the captivating appeal of snow sports and the value of Japan’s regions with the world, acting as a bridge that connects people and dreams to contribute to society.”
Masahiko Harada, President, Ski Association of Japan, added, “On behalf of our athletes and stakeholders, I am delighted to announce this new partnership with JAL. During my own competitive career, I launched into the air countless times from the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium in Sapporo, pursuing the true essence of ski jumping. The feeling of soaring through the air and the intense focus required right up to the moment of landing deeply resonate with JAL’s dedication as the wings of Japan flying across global skies. To ensure winter sports continue to carry the dreams of many and to help our next generation of athletes leap confidently onto global stages, we will work closely with JAL to promote and strengthen our sports. We sincerely appreciate your continued warm support.”
The agreement builds on JAL’s existing involvement in snow sports through its athlete-employee programme. The airline has supported Nordic combined athletes including Hiromu Yachi, who joined JAL in 2023, as well as Yuna Kasai and Haruka Kasai, who joined the company in 2026.
The new partnership strengthens JAL’s position within Japan’s winter-sports ecosystem while linking athlete development with the airline’s broader objectives around international connectivity, tourism and regional development.
