Founded in Tokyo in 1951, Japan Airlines (JAL) is one of Asia's leading international airlines. Guided by its vision of creating a sustainable and well-being-oriented future under the slogan Soaring Together, the company connects people and goods across an extensive domestic and international network.
In Europe, JAL operates direct flights between Tokyo and Helsinki, London, Paris and Frankfurt. Since launching its Helsinki route in 2013, the airline has played an important role in strengthening ties between Japan and Europe.
For Japan Airlines, partnering with Haaga-Helia was a natural choice.
– We recognize Haaga-Helia as a highly respected university of applied sciences with excellent educational quality. Since we operate in the aviation sector here in Finland, and Haaga-Helia offers specialized degree programs in Aviation Business, a partnership felt like a natural fit, explains Takumi Aoyagi, Assistant manager, General affairs, from the Helsinki Regional Office.
Bringing real-world aviation expertise into the classroom
The partnership focuses on creating meaningful connections between students and working life. Through guest lectures, company visits and industry-related learning opportunities, students gain first-hand insight into the day-to-day realities of airline operations.
Japan Airlines sees particular value in contributing to students' learning experiences by sharing expertise from the international aviation industry.
– We aim to provide opportunities such as guest lectures, share real-world insights from aviation, and organize company visits that offer students a deeper understanding of our airline business operations, says Aoyagi.
The collaboration also enables students to explore global career opportunities and develop a broader understanding of international aviation markets. Senior Lecturer, Jemina Kinnari, is very pleased with the new partnership:
– Our partnership with Japan Airlines gives our aviation students a unique opportunity to learn directly from international aviation professionals, gain an even deeper understanding of the industry and discover where their knowledge and skills can take them, says Kinnari.
Building on years of successful collaboration
While the partnership has now been formalized, cooperation between Haaga-Helia and Japan Airlines has a strong foundation built on previous collaboration. Over the past five years, Japan Airlines has welcomed students to its Helsinki office and passenger handling facilities while actively participating in guest lectures and educational activities.
These experiences have demonstrated the value of industry collaboration in helping students bridge academic learning with practical business knowledge.
– This collaboration demonstrates how strong industry partnerships create real value for both students and the aviation sector. Over the years, Japan Airlines has consistently contributed to our students’ learning through practical insights and guest lectures. Formalizing this partnership allows us to deepen that cooperation and ensure that our students continue to develop their international competencies, industry understanding, and professional networks needed for successful careers in aviation, says Ari Etelävuori, Senior Lecturer.
Supporting the next generation of aviation talent
For Japan Airlines, the most important goal of the partnership is supporting future aviation professionals.
– Our main expectation is to do as much as we can to support and inspire students pursuing careers in the aviation industry. By sharing our expertise, we hope to contribute to their professional growth, explains Keita Takahashi, Manager, General Affairs, Northern & Central Europe.
At the same time, the company looks forward to learning from students and fostering greater interest in both Japan and the aviation sector.
Through this partnership, Haaga-Helia continues to strengthen its network of international company partners and provide students with opportunities to learn directly from global business leaders. Together, Haaga-Helia and Japan Airlines are helping prepare the next generation of aviation professionals for an increasingly international future.
