JAL Flight 1628 UAP Encounter
On November 17, 1986, a Japan Airlines cargo jet crew encountered massive UAPs over Alaska. Captain Kenju Terauchi described a walnut-shaped craft 'the size of two aircraft carriers.' FAA radar confirmed the objects. The pilot was grounded despite being a veteran with impeccable record.
A veteran pilot’s career-ending encounter with massive UAPs.
The Flight
On November 17, 1986, JAL cargo flight 1628 flew from Paris to Tokyo via Alaska on a Boeing 747 during an evening flight.
The Crew
Who was there: Captain Kenju Terauchi, his co-pilot, and flight engineer composed a veteran crew of experienced pilots.
The Objects
What appeared: Two smaller craft first, then a massive walnut-shaped object described as the size of “two aircraft carriers” that paced the aircraft.
The Duration
For 50 minutes, the objects followed, changed positions, and were tracked while the FAA was contacted with radar confirmation before they finally departed.
The Radar
Official tracking came from FAA Anchorage and military radar. The objects were confirmed as separate from JAL and well documented.
The Aftermath
What followed: FAA investigation, Terauchi was interviewed, media attention ensued, the pilot was reassigned, and his career was damaged.
The Significance
Why it matters: This was a commercial flight with radar confirmation, multiple witnesses, official investigation, yet the pilot was punished.