ANA’s Flying Honu “Lani” Grounded in Honolulu After Cargo Collision
The Grounded Giant: ANA’s Beloved Honu “Lani” Rests in Honolulu 🐢✈️
On September 15, 2025, All Nippon Airways (ANA) flight NH181, operated by the iconic Airbus A380 “Flying Honu” in the Sky Blue “Lani” livery, was preparing for departure from Honolulu (HNL) to Tokyo Narita (NRT) when the unthinkable happened.
As the aircraft taxied for takeoff, a runaway FedEx cargo container and trailer broke free on the apron and slammed into the No. 4 engine on the starboard wing. Eyewitnesses from a nearby Hawaiian Airlines flight described it as a “runaway container” striking the engine cowling.
The pilots reported hydraulic issues shortly after and safely returned to the gate. Thankfully, no injuries were reported among the 498 passengers and crew onboard.
The Extent of the Damage
The collision damaged the engine cowling and potentially affected hydraulic systems tied to the Rolls-Royce Trent 900 engine. ANA has confirmed that JA381A “Lani” remains grounded at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport awaiting inspections and repairs.
Given the specialized nature of the A380 fleet, especially ANA’s unique “Flying Honu” trio, any engine damage is serious. Repairs could involve a complete cowling replacement, hydraulic checks, and in the worst case, a replacement engine flown in from overseas. These processes typically take weeks to months, not days.
Why This Matters for Hawaii Travelers
ANA’s A380s were designed specifically for the Honolulu–Tokyo leisure market. With only three in the world, Lani (Sky Blue), Kai (Emerald Green), and Ka La (Sunset Orange), the loss of one aircraft has ripple effects:
Reduced award seat availability: With “Lani” grounded, fewer A380 frequencies are available. Expect tighter award space, especially in Business and First Class.
Schedule strain: The remaining two Honus (Kai and Ka La) are being rotated to maintain service, but expect possible last-minute aircraft swaps to ANA’s smaller 787s.
Capacity crunch: Each A380 carries over 520 passengers. Losing one means thousands fewer available seats each week.
For travelers in Hawaii eyeing those hard-to-get ANA First and Business Class awards (often booked with Virgin Atlantic or United miles), this explains the recent scarcity.
What to Expect Going Forward
Right now, “Lani” sits quietly at HNL, her shimmering blue turtle shell visible to aviation fans lucky enough to spot her on the ground. The big question: how long will she rest?
Short-term: Expect award space on ANA’s Honolulu flights to be very limited. Keep an eye on ANA’s 787-operated flights via Haneda (HND) for alternatives.
Medium-term: Repairs on a Rolls-Royce Trent 900 engine and its systems often take 1–3 months, depending on parts and logistics.
Long-term: Once repairs are complete, “Lani” will return to service, restoring capacity to the Honolulu–Tokyo market and hopefully opening more award space again.
If you had a previously booked flight on that HONU, NH182, its likely you’ll be placed on another plane, probably a 787.
Fun Fact: ANA invested over $400 million per A380, making them the only Japanese airline to operate the world’s largest passenger jet, and the only carrier to design them with Hawaiian sea turtle liveries.
Scottie’s Take
For us here in Hawaii, seeing “Lani” grounded is both rare and heartbreaking. These Flying Honus aren’t just planes, they’re cultural symbols of the Japan–Hawaii connection. The last flight I took on ANA was on Lani back in November 2024. I hope they fix her fast and repair her engine.
The grounding explains why it’s been so tough to snag ANA award flights lately. My advice:
Keep searching alternative dates and airlines. With Atmos rewards gaining momentum, look for award seats on JAL.
Be flexible with Haneda vs. Narita arrivals.
Watch Virgin Atlantic Flying Club and United MileagePlus for partner space.
“Lani” will fly again, and when she does, I think we’ll all appreciate her even more. Until then, enjoy this rare chance to see her resting at HNL, Hawaii’s gentle giant taking a well-earned pause.
