Mitsuko Tottori, the first female president of Japan Airlines (JAL), is a trailblazer whose ascent to the highest office in her organization has shattered traditional stereotypes and served as an inspiration for many. Recently, the APAC Office had the privilege of interviewing Ms. Tottori to gain insights into her remarkable journey, the challenges she has overcome, and the invaluable lessons she has learned along the way. Her story offers hope and encouragement to aspiring female aviation professionals around the world.
In 2024, JAL marks the 70th anniversary of its international flight service, a milestone that highlights the airline’s enduring commitment to global connectivity. According to the airline, its mission is to create a society grounded in safety, peace of mind, and sustainability, facilitated through air travel and the connections it fosters between nations, regions, and people. The JAL Group’s ESG strategy aims to build sustainable human, commercial, and logistical flows while expanding the network of engaged communities. As part of this commitment, JAL is working toward achieving net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050 through its Green Transformation initiatives. The company is equally dedicated to fostering a work environment where employees are actively engaged and empowered to realize their full potential.
When asked about her decision to pursue an aviation career, Tottori shared her motivation: “In Japan, it’s common to gain experience and build expertise within a single company, not just within the aviation industry. As a cabin crew member, every flight is a new experience—there are always fresh discoveries, opportunities to learn, and meaningful interactions with passengers. This dynamic environment made it easy for me to lose track of time. My varied roles in cabin service, as a training instructor, in safety promotion, and customer experience allowed me to build a strong foundation in ‘safety’ and ‘service.’”
Reflecting on her leadership journey in a traditionally male-dominated field, Tottori said, “JAL maintains a gender ratio of approximately 50:50 across its workforce, with women comprising about 30% of management positions. I’ve always felt that the company champions diversity. I wanted to play the role of a ‘flag-bearer’ for diversity within this environment. While the cabin crew department has traditionally had more women, the number of male cabin crew members is steadily growing, and women are increasingly excelling in roles such as mechanics and pilots.”
Tottori concluded by sharing a pivotal career moment that reshaped her perspective on the aviation industry: “Working in the safety promotion department at JAL’s headquarters was a turning point. It offered me a unique opportunity to step back and appreciate the significance of safety from an organizational-wide perspective, while also recognizing the broader scope of JAL Group’s operations.”
Her leadership journey continues to inspire a new generation of women in aviation, and her dedication to safety, service, and diversity serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of breaking through barriers.
