Sydney Airport faces scrutiny after two runway near-collisions

Sydney Airport, Australia's busiest, is under intense scrutiny following two dangerous near-collisions on its runways. In response to the latest incident over the weekend, an air traffic controller and a ground staff member involved have been suspended from duty. The chief of the national air traffic control body, Airservices Australia, has also been summoned to explain the situation to the transport minister.

The most recent near-miss occurred Sunday morning when a Jetstar aircraft and a Qatar Airways Boeing 777 came dangerously close while taxiing. The Jetstar pilot had to brake sharply to avoid a collision. Reports indicate a Jetstar crew member sustained injuries, though passengers were unharmed. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has launched an investigation into the incident, with its chief describing it as potentially very dangerous despite occurring at low speed.

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a very dangerous incident that could have been very dangerous.

This is the second such incident at Kingsford Smith International Airport within two weeks. In late July, crews from two different aircraft received conflicting instructions from air traffic controllers, leading to a similar near-collision. That event is also under investigation.

These incidents highlight growing concerns over increasing flight operations at the major airport, coupled with persistent staff shortages. Airservices Australia has struggled for years to recruit enough air traffic controllers, leading to flight delays and a reduction in the number of takeoffs and landings to manage operations safely. The premier of New South Wales has warned that these ongoing issues could damage Sydney's international reputation as a business hub and tourist destination, while emphasizing that safety remains the absolute priority.

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A 'catastrophe' must always be avoided - even if the consequences are 'frustrating for thousands of passengers'.