Near-Miss Rate at Sydney Airport 20 Percent Above National Average
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau highlights air traffic control staff shortages and fatigue while investigating six incidents at Sydney Airport.
Sydney Airport has been recorded as the aviation hub with the highest near-miss rate in the country, displaying a rate 20 percent above the national average.
Period When Incidents Concentrated
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau investigated six incidents that occurred at the airport between July and August of this year. The agency shared four preliminary reports regarding the matter with the public.
Historical Scale Runway Incursion
In an incident in July, two Qantas aircraft narrowly avoided a collision by a distance of only 120 meters. This situation was evaluated as a runway incursion of the most serious level on an international scale.
Staff Shortages and Fatigue
Investigations determined that air traffic controllers face a high risk of fatigue. Personnel resources in the tower and the use of excessive overtime are at the center of the investigation.
Braking Resulting in Injury
In another incident that occurred in August, a Jetstar aircraft had to brake suddenly. As a result of this sudden stop, a flight attendant's wrist was broken.
Approach of Institutions and Airlines
Airservices Australia, responsible for air traffic management, is taking steps to hire more controllers. Qantas stated that it maintains its confidence in operational safety systems.