Japan Air Lines Flight 2, traveling from Tokyo to San Francisco, encountered severe challenges as it neared San Francisco International Airport. The aircraft, a Boeing 727, began experiencing engine trouble that stemmed from an unprecedented fuel miscalculation. As it approached the airport, the flight crew discovered that both engines had lost power, forcing them into an emergency situation. With time running short and unable to reach the runway, the crew made the decision to ditch the aircraft in San Francisco Bay. This decision was pivotal in ensuring the safety of the passengers and crew by opting for a controlled water landing rather than risking a crash on land.

On November 22, 1968, at approximately 4:10 PM, the aircraft touched down in the bay just off the coast of San Francisco. Rescue boats, including those from the Coast Guard, quickly arrived at the scene, allowing all 60 passengers and six crew members to be rescued without injury. The plane, however, sank shortly after the ditching, becoming a transient maritime landmark. Discussions were initiated on necessary improvements to protocols regarding fuel management and emergency procedures, largely driven by the public and media reaction to this event.

The ditching of Flight 2 marked a significant event in aviation safety discussions, as it highlighted the risks associated with fuel management in commercial aviation. It prompted airlines to revisit their safety protocols and ensured that crews were trained for more rigorous emergency scenarios. The incident was also captured in various media outlets, shining a light on the perils faced during long-haul flights and the importance of swift rescue operations. Overall, the successful ditching and rescue underscored not only the challenges of modern aviation but also the resilience and quick thinking of the flight crew.