Sydney: Repeated flight delays and two recent incidents in which aircraft came dangerously close to each other at Sydney Airport have raised fresh concerns over Australia’s air traffic management and safety systems.
The latest incident occurred on Monday, marking the second such close-call involving aircraft on the runway at the airport in the past two weeks. While the aircraft were moving at relatively low speeds, investigators said the incident had the potential to result in serious consequences.
Following the latest incident, two airport employees have been removed from their duties pending further action. Rob Sharp, head of Australia’s air traffic control organisation, has also come under pressure, with Transport Minister Catherine King describing the continuing flight delays as “unacceptable”.
The latest incident follows another close call several weeks ago, when aircraft reportedly received conflicting instructions from air traffic controllers.
Staff shortage remains a concern
A shortage of air traffic controllers has emerged as one of the key challenges facing the system. The shortage has continued since 2021, when a large number of controllers retired during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Authorities are expected to introduce a new staffing roster in September in an effort to ease the pressure on the system. However, passengers could continue to face flight delays until the new arrangements are implemented.
