Japan Airlines said alcohol was detected in two pilots before their flight from Melbourne, Australia, to Narita Airport, near Tokyo, on December 1, causing a delay of more than three hours for the flight's departure.

Officials of the carrier said the two had alcohol levels exceeding the company-set limit when they underwent pre-flight tests at their hotel.

Further tests were conducted until they passed, resulting in a departure delay of 3 hours and 11 minutes.

The officials said the pilots ordered a glass of sparkling wine each and a total of three bottles of wine at a restaurant the day before their flight.

The amount surpassed Japan Airline's limit of alcoholic beverage consumption, but the two did not report the matter to the company and claimed the test results were false.

The development came after the airline lifted in October its ban on all crew members drinking alcohol at their destinations.

The prohibition was put in place after a Japan Airlines pilot caused trouble due to drinking earlier this year.

The company said it will reinstate the alcohol ban starting December 11.