Close proximity event Safety watchdog

Close proximity event Safety watchdog investigates near-miss involving Qantas jets

A near-miss involving two Qantas jets at Sydney Airport is being investigated by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB).

The incident happened at 5.47pm (AEST) on April 29, when registered aircraft VH-VZM was departing for Brisbane and registered aircraft VH-VZW was arriving from Queenstown in New Zealand.

Both Boeing 737-800 planes were on runway 16L, the preliminary ATSB report said.

The incident was described by the ATSB as a “close proximity incident” and involved two Qantas Boeing 737-800 aircraft like this one. (Craig Abraham/The Age)

After a previous flight had departed the runway, air traffic controllers gave the Brisbane-bound plane clearance for take-off and there was a “close proximity event” with the incoming Queenstown jet on the approach.

“The controller reportedly instructed the flight crew of VH-VZW to conduct a missed approach and then vectored the aircraft onto a diverging track,” the ATSB said.

As part of the ATSB investigation, officials will interview involved parties, examine radar, radio and flight data recordings, obtain relevant information from the operator and air traffic service provider and collect other evidence as required.

The ATSB said its investigation will examine all aspects of the incident at Sydney Airport. (Dominic Lorrimer)

“A final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation,” the ATSB said.

“Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties, so that appropriate safety action can be taken.”

The investigation is expected to be completed later this year.

A spokesperson for Qantas said its pilots had followed instructions.