# Japan Air Commuter flight disruption by snake

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/japan-air-commuter-flight-disruption-by-snake
> Updated: 2026-10-24T08:25:00.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 2.

A Japan Air Commuter flight at Fukuoka Airport was grounded for nearly two days after a snake was discovered inside the aircraft. The disruption began on October 19 when a pilot spotted a moving object near the cockpit, resulting in the cancellation of a scheduled flight to Kagoshima prefecture.

On October 20, a mechanic located the reptile, identified as a non-venomous, 40cm-long juvenile Japanese striped snake, hidden beneath the cabin carpet. The aircraft, which had arrived from Izumo Airport, was cleared to depart on October 21 after the snake was captured and maintenance crews inspected the electrical systems and wiring for damage.

Japan Air Commuter, a subsidiary of Japan Airlines, stated that this is the first time such an incident has occurred in its history. While it is believed the snake entered the aircraft from the wild, officials are investigating how it accessed the cabin, and the event has raised questions regarding pre-flight inspection and airport security protocols.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-24: Japan Air Commuter flight grounded by snake on board

A Japan Air Commuter flight at Fukuoka Airport was delayed for two days after a non-venomous Japanese striped snake was found hidden under the cabin carpet.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/japan-air-commuter-flight-grounded-by-snake-on-board

### 2026-10-21: Japan Air Commuter cancels flight after snake found on plane

A Japan Air Commuter flight from Fukuoka to Kagoshima was cancelled after a 40cm non-venomous snake was found under a cabin carpet.

10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/japan-air-commuter-flight-canceled-after-snake-found-in-cockpit

---
Cite as: Japan Air Commuter flight disruption by snake. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/japan-air-commuter-flight-disruption-by-snake