The article reports on the impact of the Great East Japan Earthquake on aviation, specifically noting the simultaneous closure of Haneda and Narita airports. On March 11, 2011, after the earthquake struck, 86 flights that were en route to these major airports had to divert to alternative locations such as Kansai and Chubu airports. Among these flights, 14 declared emergencies as they were at risk of running out of fuel. This unprecedented situation highlighted the urgent need for swift decision-making in aviation crisis management, particularly during natural disasters.

In response to the lessons learned from the 2011 disaster, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism implemented measures to improve the efficiency of emergency operations. One notable initiative is the 'Emergency Diversion Operation Support System,' which was introduced in 2016. This system automatically calculates the remaining fuel of planes and recommends alternative landing sites based on the damage to airports, thereby facilitating communication and coordination among air traffic controllers and pilots. Although this system has not yet been used in a real crisis, training exercises have been conducted to prepare for potential emergencies.

Ultimately, the article underscores the importance of preparedness in aviation-related emergencies, particularly as Japan continues to face the threat of earthquakes. Aviation officials emphasize that timely and accurate decisions can prevent catastrophic outcomes, and they are committed to ensuring that necessary preparations are in place. The recollections of a Japan Airlines operations manager who experienced the 2011 crisis illustrate the intense pressure and urgency faced during such unprecedented situations, reinforcing the sentiment that such experiences should never be repeated.