On Sunday at approximately 7:00 a.m., a near-collision occurred at Sydney Airport involving a Jetstar aircraft and a Qatar Airways plane. According to a spokesperson for Jetstar, the airline's flight crew was operating in accordance with air traffic control instructions when they were required to brake firmly to avoid the other aircraft, which had entered their path.

While the incident remains under investigation, early reports suggest that the movement of the Qatar Airways plane may have been a contributing factor. Specifically, sources indicate that the tug vehicle responsible for maneuvering the Qatar Airways aircraft may have deviated from established air traffic control instructions. The incident has drawn renewed attention to the operational environment at Australia’s busiest airport, with reports highlighting ongoing concerns regarding air traffic controller staffing levels. The Guardian reports that the airport is currently struggling with personnel shortages, which some observers suggest may impact overall safety protocols and ground operations. No injuries were reported, and both airlines have confirmed they are cooperating with the necessary inquiries to determine the exact sequence of events leading to the close call.