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Taken March 2003 from Osaka Itami to Tokyo Narita

The flight was from Itami airport, the internal flight airport for Osaka to Narita (Tokyo). It was delayed by 40 minutes due to increased security measures following the start of the Iraq war, the Japanese authorities were searching everybody's coat and any containers of fluid that people were carrying. Thus a delay was to be expected and considering the number of people there, 40 minutes is quite short.

The plane was 747-400 and was about 70% full, still a lot of passengers for an internal 50 minute flight. The ground crew stood in a line and waved as the plane taxied. Take off was quite quick as there must have been a low fuel load. The plane did a 270 degree turn and headed up the west coast of Japan. Service and comfort were good, and for a short flight legroom etc does not come into it, although there was plenty on the 747.

JAL have nose and downward looking cameras where passengers can watch the take off and landing, not for the nervous! A beautiful view of Mount Fuji was had en route. Smooth landing at Narita and minimal delay before leaving the aircraft.

Generally a very good professional and well executed experience. Although I have heard the Japanese people say that JAL are more attentive to foreigners.