#Japan #Narita #JAL Group #Narita Airport #Foreign License

Japan's First Foreign License Recognition at Narita Airport

On January 21, 2026, an important milestone was achieved at Narita International Airport with the introduction of Japan's first "foreign license recognition" program. This groundbreaking initiative was implemented by JAL Ground Services (JGS), a member of the JAL Group, as a part of ongoing reforms initiated on December 1, 2025.

This innovative system is the result of a collaborative proposal between the JAL Group and Narita City, leveraging the National Strategic Special Zone to facilitate regulatory reforms. The program enables individuals from non-Geneva Convention countries to participate in a comprehensive education program without having to obtain or convert a Japanese driver's license, significantly reducing the onboarding time and ensuring strict adherence to safety standards.

Significance and Outcomes of the Program

1. Pioneering Operational Implementation: As leaders of this initiative, JAL and Narita City have broken down the barriers that foreign talent often face when trying to work in Japan, specifically the challenges related to obtaining a driver’s license. The successful launch of this first program participant represents a key step toward achieving the government’s goal of welcoming 60 million foreign visitors by 2030 while sustaining the evolution of airport ground handling services.

2. Ensuring Airport Staffing: The new program aims to eliminate the previously required six-month waiting period for individuals from non-Geneva Convention countries before they could start working in roles that involve driving. The immediate implementation of skills allows for a much shorter waiting time, enabling quicker integration into the workforce and ensuring that airport operations can efficiently meet rising demand.

3. Maintaining High Safety Standards: By incorporating JGS’s extensive experience in safety education alongside rigorous evaluations from driving schools, the program establishes a unique training scheme that ensures high safety standards while quickly preparing eager individuals to become professionals in their fields. This includes:
- Comprehensive driving skills assessments by certified personnel.
- Hazard prediction training tailored to the specific accident characteristics typical in airports.
- Vehicle operation skills education that factors in the characteristics of ground support equipment (GSE) and aircraft operations.

4. Promoting a Diverse Workforce: The reforms contribute to the acceleration of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. By creating an environment where employees, regardless of nationality, can quickly take on responsibilities, the program enhances operational agility and reduces the burden on existing staff. The involvement of a diverse workforce is vital to motivating the entire workplace and propelling JAL Group’s DEI efforts forward.

Future Prospects

The successful implementation of this program at Narita Airport serves as a model for other airports in Japan. JAL plans to extend this operational expertise across various airports facing similar challenges, thereby establishing a robust support framework for its air transport network.

Furthermore, the initiative aims to foster a foundation of skilled foreign professionals who can proudly work as key contributors to Japan’s aviation industry. Rather than merely addressing labor shortages, this program aims to enhance the quality of services provided to international travelers, establishing Japanese airports as preferred destinations.

JAL Group is committed to creating an inclusive work environment where diverse talents can thrive and contribute to safer and higher-quality airport operations than ever before.