JAL Partners with Japan Ski and Snowboard Federation to Empower Athletes
On August 25, 2026, Japan Airlines (JAL) announced a partnership agreement with the Japan Ski and Snowboard Federation (SAJ). In this collaboration, JAL will serve as a 'ROYAL PARTNER,' committing to promote and support snow sports in Japan and further assist the athletes representing the nation on global platforms.
Skiers and snowboarders who take to the snow-covered mountains not only challenge their limits but also inspire audiences by soaring into the sky. This vivid imagery encapsulates a greater ability to uplift spirits and evoke feelings of adventure. However, the snow sports community has recently faced significant challenges due to increased travel and gear transportation costs, which seem to be a growing concern. Younger upcoming athletes especially require more opportunities to venture out and take on challenges that will help broaden their horizons.
JAL has a longstanding commitment to supporting athletes through various initiatives, aiming to foster an environment where young and aspiring snow sports athletes can glide into the world without fear. By leveraging their extensive domestic and international air network, JAL provides comfortable travel experiences and efficient transport of oversized luggage, to ease the way for young athletes passionate about snow sports.
Moreover, the SAJ works towards establishing safety standards and enhancing the appeal of snow areas, which plays a crucial role in attracting numerous tourists to Japan’s diverse ski resorts. This partnership aims to share Japan's rich snow resources with the world, bolstering tourism and contributing to the local economy while also establishing sustainable development goals within the snow sports community.
Founded in 1925, the SAJ is dedicated to promoting skiing and snowboarding, contributing to the healthy growth of individuals, and fostering the culture of snow sports. Their main activities include:
- Enhancing the strength of the ski and snowboard national team and sending them to international competitions.
- Organizing domestic competitions and nurturing competitors, along with developing competition rules and training coaches.
- Promoting snow sports as a lifelong sport with an emphasis on safety.
As part of its commitment to sports, in April 2023, JAL welcomed its first athlete employee, skier Chuu Yanagi, and in April 2026, skiers Yuna Kasai and Haruka Kasai will join the team. JAL is fully dedicated to supporting their competitive activities. Employees of the JAL group unite to cheer for these athletes at domestic and international events. Continually, JAL pledges to empower the challenges faced by its athlete employees on snow sports fields.
Mitsuko Tottori, CEO of JAL: "At JAL, we proudly support all athletes striving towards their dreams. We are honored to partner with the Japan Ski and Snowboard Federation and aid in the athletes' challenges. Through safe and comfortable travel, we aim to help promote the splendid world of snow sports and connect people and dreams amid our social contributions."
Masahiko Harada, President of SAJ: "We, along with our athletes and members, are thrilled at this new partnership with JAL. My own history of soaring into the skies from Okurayama Ski Jump during my active years resonates with JAL's commitment to flying across the globe. We look forward to nurturing and promoting the sport, ensuring future generations of athletes can confidently take the stage both nationally and internationally with JAL's support. We appreciate everyone’s ongoing support and encouragement."
JAL will continue to foster the relentless spirits of athletes challenging their limits and collaborate with travelers to amplify the connections enriched through the power of sports, contributing positively to society.
Skiers and snowboarders who take to the snow-covered mountains not only challenge their limits but also inspire audiences by soaring into the sky. This vivid imagery encapsulates a greater ability to uplift spirits and evoke feelings of adventure. However, the snow sports community has recently faced significant challenges due to increased travel and gear transportation costs, which seem to be a growing concern. Younger upcoming athletes especially require more opportunities to venture out and take on challenges that will help broaden their horizons.
JAL has a longstanding commitment to supporting athletes through various initiatives, aiming to foster an environment where young and aspiring snow sports athletes can glide into the world without fear. By leveraging their extensive domestic and international air network, JAL provides comfortable travel experiences and efficient transport of oversized luggage, to ease the way for young athletes passionate about snow sports.
Moreover, the SAJ works towards establishing safety standards and enhancing the appeal of snow areas, which plays a crucial role in attracting numerous tourists to Japan’s diverse ski resorts. This partnership aims to share Japan's rich snow resources with the world, bolstering tourism and contributing to the local economy while also establishing sustainable development goals within the snow sports community.
About the Japan Ski and Snowboard Federation (SAJ)
Founded in 1925, the SAJ is dedicated to promoting skiing and snowboarding, contributing to the healthy growth of individuals, and fostering the culture of snow sports. Their main activities include:
- Enhancing the strength of the ski and snowboard national team and sending them to international competitions.
- Organizing domestic competitions and nurturing competitors, along with developing competition rules and training coaches.
- Promoting snow sports as a lifelong sport with an emphasis on safety.
JAL's Continuing Commitment
As part of its commitment to sports, in April 2023, JAL welcomed its first athlete employee, skier Chuu Yanagi, and in April 2026, skiers Yuna Kasai and Haruka Kasai will join the team. JAL is fully dedicated to supporting their competitive activities. Employees of the JAL group unite to cheer for these athletes at domestic and international events. Continually, JAL pledges to empower the challenges faced by its athlete employees on snow sports fields.
Comments from Leadership
Mitsuko Tottori, CEO of JAL: "At JAL, we proudly support all athletes striving towards their dreams. We are honored to partner with the Japan Ski and Snowboard Federation and aid in the athletes' challenges. Through safe and comfortable travel, we aim to help promote the splendid world of snow sports and connect people and dreams amid our social contributions."
Masahiko Harada, President of SAJ: "We, along with our athletes and members, are thrilled at this new partnership with JAL. My own history of soaring into the skies from Okurayama Ski Jump during my active years resonates with JAL's commitment to flying across the globe. We look forward to nurturing and promoting the sport, ensuring future generations of athletes can confidently take the stage both nationally and internationally with JAL's support. We appreciate everyone’s ongoing support and encouragement."
JAL will continue to foster the relentless spirits of athletes challenging their limits and collaborate with travelers to amplify the connections enriched through the power of sports, contributing positively to society.
Topics Sports）
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