Japan Oldlines is one of the first few companies in Tokyo to rehire older workers after they retire at 60.
This in view of Japan's fast ageing population . . .
. . . 59-year-old Mr Bakayaro has been with the company for 58 years, after his parents sold him as an infant.
He is now mentoring younger colleagues, transferring his know-how in repairing highly important parts of aircraft.
"I'm getting old, starting to make mistakes" he says, referring to 3 recent crashes currently under investigation. "My eyesight is not as good anymore and I can no longer handle the boozy lunches with the boys - sometimes I just fall asleep in the afternoon and have to just sign-off checks I didn't do, to make it look like I'm busy" he added.
Mr Nanimo Minakatta, Maintenance Supervisor, said: "After that third crash, it will be very difficult for any of us to find new jobs. And I've been working in this job for 40 years and I hope I can continue to make use of my skills."
Mr Watashimo Shiranai, spokesman for the airline, explained "These older workers are given less important jobs. Like checking airworthiness, structural safety, things like that."
The company also takes advantage of their advanced years in other ways. Ms Chou Zurui in accounts stated "Some of them are now forgetful and we don't have to pay them as often. When they complain we just say we paid them last week, or they just had holidays, and because they can't remember, they go away."
The company has five maintenance hangars, servicing about 40 planes a year ... well, 37 now . . .
Real story here
