Sydney Airport safety watchdog investigates fourth near-miss in one month

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has launched an investigation into a fourth air traffic control incident at Sydney Airport in less than a month. The latest event occurred on Tuesday when two Qantas aircraft—an Airbus A321 and a Boeing 737—were directed toward the same intersection on the ground. The Airbus crew had to brake to avoid the Boeing, which had been cleared to continue along a taxiway the Airbus was also cleared to enter.

This incident follows a series of safety concerns at the airport throughout July and August. Previous events include a July 27 conflict where two Qantas aircraft nearly collided on a runway, and an August 9 incident where a Jetstar A320 braked suddenly to avoid a Qatar Airways Boeing 777, resulting in a minor injury to a cabin crew member. On that same day, a Virgin Australia jet also narrowly avoided a Qantas aircraft on a runway.

The ATSB is currently collecting evidence, including interviewing air traffic controllers and flight crews, and reviewing recorded data. A preliminary report is expected within six to eight weeks. Airservices Australia stated it is cooperating with the investigation and reviewing its operational safety measures.