Japan Transport Ministry seeking comprehensive restructure plan for JAL

Japan's Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Ministry stated the business improvement plan currently being developed by Japan Airlines Corp needs to give no part of the company ''sanctuary'' (Kyodo, 20-Aug-09). The comments were made at the first meeting of an expert panel tasked with monitoring the improvement plan. The six-member panel will offer JAL advice on reform plans needed to rebuild its management and have them reflected in its business improvement plan, including "drastic" restructuring steps.

Japan Government: ''JAL's improvement plan cannot win society's trust unless it is improved and no aspect of the company is given a free pass. We would like the panel to scrutinize the contents of the improvement plan and provide frank and harsh advice", Hiroaki Taniguchi, Vice Minister of the Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Ministry. Source: Kyodo, 20-Aug-09.