Since JAL emerged from bankruptcy in 2010, the company has been on a combination of cost-cutting and strategic route planning. Everything was relatively new, staff were courteous and imbued with "omotenashi".

Budget airline company Skymark went into bankruptcy, marking the end of a painful 3-year process of spiraling losses (especially in the last year) due to a declining market share and expanding costs.

All Nippon Airlines announced a net loss of JPY6.6bn for the first quarter of the year amidst the 787 Dreamliner groundings, rising fuel costs on the weaker yen, and losses booked from its failed joint venture with AirAsia.

Among various incidents which prompted Dreamliner aircraft to be grounded have been the incineration of the auxiliary power unit on an empty JAL aircraft and later a forced landing of an ANA jet with another major electrical problem.

Our overall first-time traveler rating for Jetstar is that they offer great value and despite the occasional teething problems look to have a good operation -- certainly the staff were very friendly.

Low-cost Carrier Peach Aviation will start flying domestic legs at greatly reduced rates over existing airlines.

Reduced landing fees at Narita international airport should attract a certain type of carrier.

Will bankrupt JAL tie-up with Delta's Skyteam or American's Oneworld to meet the Open Skies criteria?