Japan Gets First IS-BAH Ground Handling Network

The International Business Aviation Council’s (IBAC) International Standard for Business Aircraft Handling (IS-BAH) voluntary business aviation safety program has a firm foothold in Japan with the naming of Japan Aviation Service (JAS) as the first ground handling group in the country to achieve IS-BAH Stage 1 registration. The company—Japan’s first ground handling provider, established nearly four decades ago—is being recognized by IBAC for the accomplishment this week at EBACE.

“We are extremely proud to have received the IS-BAH registration, which reflects the quality and commitment we have maintained over the years,” said JAS CEO and chairman Tomoyoshi Tsuchiya. “This accreditation officially confirms our safety management infrastructure that meets international standards for safety and excellence.”

JAS provides flight support, fuel supply, crew and passenger assistance, and coordination of domestic and international charter flights.

The company operates at five airports in Japan: in Tokyo at Haneda (RJTT) and Narita International (RJAA); Kansai International (RJBB) in Osaka; New Chitose Airport (RJCC) on Hokkaido; and at Naha Airport (ROAH) on Okinawa. All five locations have met and enhanced their ground handling operations through the use of globally recognized industry best practices.

“We congratulate JAS on their IS-BAH achievement, a first for Japan, and an admirable accomplishment for voluntarily aligning all five locations at the same time,” stated Terry Yeomans, IBAC’s IS-BAH program director. “We look forward to supporting the JAS team on their safety journey and wish them much success.”