Fuel leak involving Airbus A321, VH-OFW, about 90 km north of Olympic Dam Airport, South Australia on 25 May 2026

AO-2026-081

The ATSB is investigating a fuel leak involving an Airbus A321, registered VH-OFW, about 90 km north of Olympic Dam Airport, South Australia, on 25 May 2026.

The aircraft was operating as Jetstar flight JQ37, scheduled from Sydney to Denpasar, Indonesia. During cruise, the crew detected a fuel leak and shut down the number 2 engine in accordance with the published procedure before diverting the aircraft to Adelaide.

The evidence collection phase of the investigation will involve examining aircraft components, interviewing involved parties, examination of maintenance records, retrieving and reviewing recorded data, and the collection of other relevant information.

A final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation. 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.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number AO-2026-081
Occurrence date 25/05/2026
Location about 90 km north of Olympic Dam Airport
State South Australia
Anticipated completion Q4 2026
Investigation level Short
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation phase Evidence collection
Investigation status Active
Mode of transport Aviation
Aviation occurrence category Diversion/return, Fuel, Leaking or venting
Occurrence class Incident
Highest injury level None

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Airbus
Model A321-251NX
Registration VH-OFW
Serial number 11380
Aircraft operator Jetstar Airways
Sector Jet
Operation type Part 121 Air transport operations - larger aeroplanes
Activity Commercial air transport-Scheduled-International
Departure point Sydney Airport, NSW
Destination Denpasar Airport, Indonesia
Damage Nil