A New York-based gallery has filed a lawsuit against Alaska Airlines, accusing the airline of damaging approximately $521,900 worth of Japanese artwork during a transfer in Honolulu, Hawaii. The incident occurred during a heavy rainstorm on March 18 when the artwork was being moved between flights en route from Osaka, Japan, to John F. Kennedy International Airport. The paintings were intended for Naga Antiques, a gallery in Hudson, New York, known for its extensive collection of Japanese art and decorative objects. According to the lawsuit, the artworks were placed in cardboard crates and were not protected from the rain when they were deplaned in Honolulu. The complaint claims that Alaska Airlines and its subsidiary, Hawaiian Airlines, failed to take necessary precautions, resulting in significant water damage to the pieces. The lawsuit, filed by Distinguished Programs Insurance Brokerage LLC, states that the airline and Compass Forwarding Co., a logistics company based in Queens, New York, acted with "gross neglect, reckless disregard, and willful misconduct." The insurance brokerage paid out Naga Antiques’ claim and is now seeking to recover the money, along with interest, from the defendants. Naga Antiques, which has been in operation since 1971, claims to house the world's largest collection of Japanese screens, among other fine art and decorative objects. However, the lawsuit does not provide specific details about the 11 paintings in question. Distinguished Programs Insurance Brokerage specializes in offering insurance solutions for art dealers and galleries, including coverage for art transport. This case is part of a broader pattern of high-profile disputes involving art damage during transit. For example, in 2009, the Gagosian Gallery sued Lufthansa Cargo over a $3 million painting that was allegedly destroyed during transport. Similarly, in 2017, insurance company Zurich American sued Delta Air Lines for $2.6 million on behalf of Christie's after a Gerhard Richter painting was reportedly ruined during a flight. Naga Antiques has not responded to requests for comment, and Alaska Airlines also did not reply to a message seeking clarification. The case highlights the challenges and risks involved in transporting high-value art, where even minor mishandling can lead to significant financial and reputational consequences.