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Transforming Aircraft Engine Inspections: A New Era with JAL and Partners

On February 2, 2026, Japan Airlines (JAL), along with its engineering subsidiary, JAL Engineering (JALEC), and IT firm Cresco, have officially introduced a state-of-the-art system designed to streamline the inspection of aircraft engines through innovative digital solutions. This collaborative effort focuses on improving the efficiency and accuracy of internal inspections using advanced techniques.

The newly launched system automates the extraction of images from video footage taken during borescope inspections. This technology allows for a centralized management of inspection data on the cloud. The new functionalities enable maintenance teams to compare historical inspection data over time, automatically recognize and highlight damages, and significantly enhance both the quality and efficiency of aircraft maintenance practices.

One of the key benefits of this system is its role in preserving the invaluable expertise of seasoned technicians. By making the knowledge of experienced mechanics visible, the system facilitates the transfer of skills to younger engineers. This knowledge transfer is crucial in an industry where hands-on experience is paramount.

Furthermore, the system combines daily accumulated inspection imagery with operational engine data, paving the way for 'predictive maintenance.' This approach allows for the early detection of potential failures, enabling maintenance to be performed at the most opportune times. Unlike traditional methods that rely on scheduled checks or reactive repairs, predictive maintenance leverages data to assess when maintenance is genuinely needed, directly contributing to enhanced aircraft safety and operational quality.

The innovative system represents the evolution of a previous project initiated between JAL Group and Cresco in 2019, focusing on the support tools for borescope inspections. The current deployment, a comprehensive web application, marks a significant milestone in this ongoing collaboration. Moving forward, JALEC, as the primary entity responsible for aircraft maintenance within the JAL Group, will prioritize the continual accumulation of data and advanced analysis techniques to refine failure risk assessment and optimize maintenance planning. The ultimate goal is to foster a safer and more efficient operational environment for aircraft engines.

JALEC is committed to achieving its safety operation objective, branded 'Zero Zero 100' (zero irregular operations, zero in-flight failures, and 100% on-time departures), by enhancing the analysis and utilization of internal inspection data. Together, JAL, JALEC, and Cresco will continue to merge the insights of maintenance expertise with digital technology, striving to elevate the safety and reliability of air travel.

Comments from the Companies' Leaders

Naoto Hanai, Engine Maintenance Center Director at JAL Engineering, expressed: "At JAL Engineering, we are dedicated to ensuring our customers can fly with confidence. Monitoring the engine condition, which operates in harsh environments, is critical for safety. The endoscopic imaging diagnostic tool we developed with Cresco allows for more effective monitoring of engine internals, serving as a powerful asset. By maximizing the use of this diagnostic tool, we aim to provide higher quality aircraft operations."

Takayuki Teramura, Executive Officer at Cresco, stated: "Leveraging our core competencies in image analysis and AI technologies, we have advanced this joint research with JALEC. By combining our insights into rapidly evolving AI with our established expertise as a systems integrator, we have successfully launched this system. Contributing to the digital transformation of JAL, a leader in the aviation industry, is a tremendous honor for us."

About Japan Airlines

Japan Airlines, established in 1951, is a member of the oneworld® alliance and operates a fleet of 232 aircraft as of March 2025, connecting to 395 airports in 68 countries worldwide. Recognized as a "5-Star Airline" by Skytrax and awarded by APEX as "World Class," JAL is among the most punctual airlines globally, dedicated to delivering the highest standard of safety and service.

About Cresco

Founded in 1988, Cresco is an independent systems integrator providing comprehensive IT services, including consulting, design, development, and maintenance across various industries such as transportation and finance. Through its digital solutions division, Cresco supports the realization of digital transformation strategies to achieve a co-creative growth ecosystem with its clients.