On August 9, 2026, two aircraft nearly collided on the tarmac at Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport. A Jetstar Airways plane was taxiing from its bay when a Qatar Airways Boeing 777, being towed near Terminal 2, approached unusually close.
Flight Delays and Operational Impact
The incident led to delays for over 150 flights at Australia’s busiest airport. In addition to the near-collision, ongoing staff shortages at Sydney Airport contributed to the operational disruptions on that day.
Official Responses and Safety Measures
Following the event, Airservices Australia imposed departure spacing measures to safely manage both airborne and departure traffic demands. The agency has launched a review of the incident and is
assisting with any safety investigations. Airservices Australia also said it is collaborating with airlines to mitigate delays and lessen passenger travel impact.
Statements from Jetstar and Airservices Australia
A Jetstar Airways spokesperson said, “Our aircraft was following instructions by Air Traffic Control when the pilots were forced to brake firmly after another aircraft came in close proximity.” The spokesperson added that the airline had commenced an investigation into the incident. Airservices Australia stated, “We are working with airlines to reduce delays and the impact on passenger travel as much as possible.”
The Qatar Airways Boeing 777 involved was the only Qatar Airways aircraft at Sydney Airport
at the time, having landed earlier Sunday morning at Terminal 1 on the opposite side of the airport. It was being towed to a remote parking stand near Terminal 2 when the near-collision occurred.
No passengers were injured during the incident, although one cabin attendant required paramedic treatment.
Jetstar Airways, owned by Qantas Airways Ltd, recently announced new charges for overhead luggage bins effective from next year.
