An investigation into a near collision at Sydney Airport has been launched by safety regulators after two passenger aircraft came dangerously close to each other on Sunday morning, resulting in an injury to a crew member. The incident involved a Jetstar Airbus A320 taxiing for a flight to the Gold Coast and a Qatar Airways Boeing 777 being towed by an aircraft tug.
Incident Details
According to the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB), the Jetstar crew observed the Qatar Airways aircraft in close proximity on a crossing taxiway. To avoid a collision, the Jetstar pilots applied sudden brakes, leading to an injury to a cabin crew member and damage to the connection between the Boeing 777's nose gear and the tug.
Investigation Underway
Investigators are gathering data from both aircraft, reviewing air traffic control records, and interviewing crew and tug operators. They have also requested any available video footage from witnesses at the airport to aid in determining the cause of the near collision.
Operational Impact
The incident has caused delays at Sydney Airport, according to Airservices Australia. The injured Jetstar crew member was treated by paramedics after the abrupt stop of the aircraft.
Preliminary Findings
An official, not authorized to speak publicly, suggested that the tug operator for the Qatar Airways plane may not have followed air traffic control instructions. Qatar Airways has not yet responded to requests for comment.
