‘Not enough air traffic controllers’: safety concerns at Sydney airport after Jetstar and Qatar planes involved in near-miss

A Jetstar A320 and a Qatar Airways Boeing 777 narrowly avoided colliding on the tarmac at Sydney airport on Sunday morning, raising safety concerns amidst staffing shortages. The Jetstar flight had to brake firmly when the Qatar aircraft, being towed, came into close proximity. The ATSB is investigating the incident, which resulted in one cabin crew member requiring medical attention and caused damage to the Qatar aircraft.

The airport is experiencing difficulties due to staff shortages, leading to delays affecting over 150 flights on Saturday. NSW Premier Chris Minns expressed concern over the safety risks and the impact on the economy, calling for a plan to recruit more air traffic controllers. The government is optimistic about opening a new airport in western Sydney, but the current staffing challenges pose a significant threat to public safety and economic operations.