Japan Airlines Flight 1628

On November 17, 1986, the crew of Japan Airlines cargo flight 1628 encountered a massive unidentified object over Alaska. The encounter lasted nearly 50 minutes and was confirmed by ground radar. The case represents one of the most credible pilot encounters on record.

The Flight

Captain Kenju Terauchi was piloting a Boeing 747 cargo plane from Paris to Tokyo via Alaska. Co-pilot Takanori Tamefuji and flight engineer Yoshio Tsukuba were also on board. They were experienced crew members with no history of unusual reports.

The Encounter

At approximately 5:11 PM, the crew observed two square-shaped objects with glowing nozzles approach the aircraft. These objects were later joined by a much larger object, which Captain Terauchi described as walnut-shaped and the size of two aircraft carriers.

The Radar

FAA ground radar confirmed an object near the aircraft. The crew reported the object for nearly 50 minutes as it followed their plane. Captain Terauchi requested and was granted permission to deviate from his flight path.

The Investigation

The FAA investigated extensively. Division chief John Callahan later revealed that the CIA was involved in debriefing and confiscated radar data. Callahan became a UFO disclosure advocate after retirement.

The Aftermath

Captain Terauchi was temporarily grounded after the incident received media attention. Japan Airlines stood by his account. He was later returned to flying duty.

Assessment

The JAL 1628 case combines experienced pilot testimony, extended observation time, and radar confirmation. The subsequent involvement of intelligence agencies suggests official interest that contradicted public dismissals.