On Sunday, 9 August 2026, over 150 flights were delayed at Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport after a near-collision occurred on the tarmac near Terminal 2. A Jetstar Airways plane was taxiing from its bay when a Qatar Airways Boeing 777, being towed to a remote parking stand, came into close proximity. The Jetstar pilots applied firm braking to avoid a collision. No passengers were injured, but one cabin attendant received medical treatment from paramedics.
Flight Delays and Safety Responses
Following the incident, Airservices Australia implemented departure spacing measures to manage the increased airborne and departure demands safely at Sydney Airport. These safety protocols contributed to
ongoing delays affecting more than 150 flights throughout the day. Air traffic control staffing shortages have also been cited as factors exacerbating operational disruptions at Australia’s busiest airport.
Official Statements and Investigation
A Jetstar Airways spokesperson confirmed the near-collision, stating the airline’s aircraft was following Air Traffic Control instructions when the pilots had to brake firmly after another plane came too close. The spokesperson also announced that Jetstar had commenced an investigation into the incident. Meanwhile, Airservices Australia said it is reviewing the event and assisting with any safety investigations. An Airservices Australia representative added, “We are working with airlines to reduce delays and
the impact on passenger travel as much as possible.”
Passenger Impact and Context
Passengers at Sydney Airport on 9 August should expect extended waiting times and disruptions as more than 150 flights experienced delays due to the incident and subsequent safety measures. The Qatar Airways Boeing 777 involved had arrived earlier that morning at Terminal 1 but was being towed near Terminal 2 at the time of the near-collision. Jetstar Airways, the dominant Australian budget airline owned by Qantas Airways Ltd, had recently announced new charges for overhead luggage bin use, although this is unrelated to the current disruption.
