JAL and Toyota Industries to Begin Trials to Expand "Level 4 Autonomous Towing" Routes at Haneda Airport
[Translation]
Tokyo, JAPAN―Japan Airlines (JAL) and Toyota Industries Corporation (Toyota Industries) announced that the two companies will begin trials in November 2026 using an autonomous towing tractor manufactured by Toyota Industries. This initiative aims to expand the operation of "Level 4 Autonomous Driving" (fully unmanned operation under specific conditions) at Haneda Airport.
On December 15, 2025, JAL launched commercial operation of a Level 4 autonomous towing tractor at Haneda Airport, utilizing shared infrastructure such as signaling equipment and cameras installed by the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB). The new routes for these upcoming trials include tunnel sections, presenting a higher level of difficulty with significantly different driving environments and operational conditions compared to the current routes.
During these trials, leveraging Toyota Industries' proven expertise at Haneda Airport, the companies will carefully assess the requirements and challenges associated with transport operations under Level 4 autonomous driving in these unique conditions. The trials will also evaluate coordination with the new shared infrastructure being developed by JCAB.
Through these trials, JAL and Toyota Industries aim to improve efficiency and reduce labor demands in ground handling operations, while further reducing environmental impact through the use of electric vehicles. Furthermore, by expanding the application range of autonomous towing tractors at Haneda Airport, the companies intend to deploy these already-commercialized autonomous driving technologies across varied driving environments and operational conditions, with a view toward future expansion to airports nationwide.
About Japan Airlines:
Japan Airlines (JAL) was established in 1951 as Japan's first private airline. Today, as a member of the oneworld® Alliance, the airline operates a fleet of 234 aircraft (as of March 2026) throughout an extensive domestic and international network, serving 413 airports in 71 countries/regions together with other JAL Group and partner airlines.
The airline has been the proud recipient of many accolades for its exceptional service, including recognition as a 5-Star Airline by Skytrax and "World Class" by APEX. Under its brand slogan, Soaring Together, JAL strives to awaken senses, lift spirits and inspire, and make meaningful connections for its customers and stakeholders throughout society. The airline is dedicated to ensuring the highest standards of flight safety and overall service quality, striving to be the most preferred airline by customers worldwide.
For details and to learn more, visit JAL's official website at 
https://www.jal.com/en/
About Toyota Industries Corporation:
Toyota Industries Corporation, which originated in Textile Machinery business, operates globally across the Automobile and Material Handling Equipment sectors. In particular, the Company has been leading global markets of lift trucks, car air-conditioning compressors, and air-jet looms.
Under Vision 2030, which outlines its medium to long-term aspirations, the Company aims to contribute to making the earth a better place to live, enrich lifestyles, and promote a compassionate society by supporting industrial and social infrastructure around the world through the continuous supply of products and services that anticipate customers' needs.
For details and to learn more, visit Toyota Industries Corporation's official website athttps://www.toyota-industries.com/index.html
(*1) Image generated using AI.