The pilot of the plane involved in the collision with a Japan Airlines jet claimed clearance for takeoff, yet air-traffic-control transcripts present a conflicting narrative.

The collision between a Japan Airlines passenger jet and a Japanese coast-guard aircraft in Tokyo is now better understood.

An air-traffic-control transcript reveals that the coast-guard plane involved wasn’t cleared for takeoff, contradicting the captain’s claim.

The transcript indicates instructions for the coast-guard plane to taxi near the runway, but the captain insisted he had permission to take off.

Tragically, five of the coast-guard plane’s crew perished, with the captain surviving but sustaining severe injuries.

Despite the passenger jet having permission to land, the incident led to an investigation involving Japan’s Safety Transport Board and collaboration with British and French authorities.