Press Release

Tokyo, JAPAN―Japan Airlines Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo; President and Group CEO: Mitsuko Tottori; hereinafter "JAL") has entered into a partnership agreement with the Ski Association of Japan (hereinafter "SAJ"). As an official "ROYAL PARTNER," JAL will fully support the promotion and development of snow sports, as well as the challenges faced by Japan's national team athletes.

 The sight of skiers and snowboarders taking on their limits against snowy mountain backdrops and soaring high into the sky moves audiences deeply, holding rich potential to uplift people's spirits. Meanwhile, the snow sports community has recently faced significant environmental changes, including soaring travel expenses and the increased burden of transporting large gear. Establishing an environment that enables athletes--particularly the young, next-generation talent--to secure sufficient travel and competition opportunities has become a pressing priority.

JAL has long supported individuals striving for excellence through sports sponsorship. Through this partnership, JAL will leverage its expansive domestic and international route network, comfortable inflight environments, and safe, reliable transport systems for oversized baggage to fully back the passion and challenges of next-generation snow sports athletes, ensuring they can take to the world stage with peace of mind.

Furthermore, SAJ's efforts to establish safety standards and enhance the appeal of snow areas have served as a major catalyst in attracting numerous tourists from Japan and abroad to snow resorts across the country, making a significant contribution to expanding local tourism demand. By promoting Japan's rich snow resources and attractions to the world alongside SAJ, JAL aims to support tourism promotion and local economic development through snow sports, while contributing to sustainable snow sports development and the creation of a prosperous society.

About the Ski Association of Japan (SAJ)

● Established: 1925
● Philosophy: To foster healthy human development and the growth of snow culture through the promotion and development of skiing and snowboarding.
● Core Activities:
- Development of Japan's national skiing and snowboarding teams and their dispatch to international competitions
- Hosting domestic competitions, developing and training athletes, updating competition rules, and training certified instructors
- Promoting snow sports as a lifelong sport and providing safety guidance

JAL's Initiatives
In April 2023, JAL welcomed Nordic Combined athlete Hiromu Yachi as an employee-athlete, followed by Yuna Kasai and Haruka Kasai (also Nordic Combined athletes) in April 2026. JAL fully supports their athletic pursuits, with JAL Group employees uniting to cheer for them at domestic and international competitions. JAL remains committed to strongly backing the endeavors of its employee-athletes as they excel in the field of snow sports.

Comment from Mitsuko Tottori, President and Group CEO, Japan Airlines
"Through our support for numerous athletes and sports organizations, JAL actively encourages all athletes chasing their dreams. We are deeply honored 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."

Comment from Masahiko Harada, President, Ski Association of Japan
"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."

JAL will continue to empower athletes taking flight onto the global stage, expanding the enriching connections created by the power of sports together with its customers.