The Japan Airlines logo has gone through several complete overhauls since the airline was founded in 1951.
Meaning and history
1951
The original design featured a stylized aircraft (as seen from behind) flying towards a circle (apparently, the sun).
1959
The circle was the only element borrowed from the previous logo. It now housed a stylized bird. The lettering “Japan Air Lines” could be seen above.
1989
The abbreviation “JAL” in black over a red square and a gray rectangle.
2002
The abbreviation “JAL” in a slightly different type with a dynamic curve placed over the “A.”
2011
The company returns to its iconic 1959 logo with just a couple of minor modifications.