Originally Posted by
jackieofalltrades
I wonder why they didn't divert to a closer airport such as Seattle or San Francisco, both of which are regular destinations for All Nippon and so would have ground staff capable of handling the plane.
If they had landed anywhere else in the states they would most likely not be able to operate to Japan because of flight hour limits. Going back to base meant that the chances of getting a crew together would be better.
I'm not saying that the decision to return was correct.. for some countries it can be a nightmare (Eg Indonesia, India, Nigeria....) but I would have thought Japan was ok as they have good relations with the states.
Anilv