Japan Airlines and Safran Sign Landmark Long-term "Support by Hour" Agreement for Airbus A350 Fleet

February 03, 2026

Japan Airlines and Safran have signed a comprehensive nine-year “Support By the Hour” (SBH) contract covering up to 35 Airbus A350-900 and A350-1000 aircraft, with services set to begin on January 1st, 2026. This landmark agreement is the first of its kind, bringing together four Safran companies - Safran Landing Systems, Safran Electronics & Defense, Safran Electrical & Power, and Safran Ventilation Systems - under a single contract to deliver a turnkey complete support solution for Japan Airlines’ Airbus A350 fleet.

Under this SBH agreement, Safran will deliver a full spectrum of customized services including maintenance, repair, component pooling, logistics management, and dedicated local support in Tokyo. Safran will also oversee on-site logistics and transportation, ensuring that all components are collected and returned to the customer’s facilities with a dedicated local team. By leveraging real-time data, advanced analytics, and digital integration, this offering will anticipate maintenance needs, increase component availability, and prevent unscheduled events maximizing reliability and helping keep Japan Airlines’ fleet flying at peak performance.

“We are pleased to have concluded an agreement with Safran regarding parts maintenance for the A350. The A350 is one of our main aircraft, and ensuring its on-time performance remains a major challenge. Through this agreement, we will strengthen the partnership between JAL and Safran, support the A350’s punctual operation and aircraft quality, and better services to our passengers." Kyohei Takizawa, Japan Airlines VP, Aircraft and Engineering Procurement

“We are honored that Japan Airlines has chosen Safran for this pioneering collaboration. By combining the expertise of four Safran companies we are raising the standard for tailored, long-term OEM support. Our shared goal is to ensure that Japan Airlines maintains the highest levels of reliability and service quality for its passengers across Asia and beyond.” Darren Waite, Safran Landing Systems Executive VP Customer Support & Services

Together, Japan Airlines and Safran are shaping a new model for airline support in the Asia-Pacific region, setting new standards in operational efficiency and customer excellence.

Source : Safran S.A.