Near collision involving Airbus A320, VH-VQJ, and Boeing 777, A7-BEU, at Sydney Airport, New South Wales, on 9 August 2026

AO-2026-087

Summary

The ATSB is investigating a near ground collision involving Airbus A320, VH-VQJ, and Boeing 777, A7-BEU, at Sydney Airport, New South Wales on 9 August 2026.

The A320 was operating as Jetstar Airways flight JQ402, scheduled from Sydney, New South Wales, to Gold Coast, Queensland. The Boeing 777 was under tow from an aircraft tug at the time of the occurrence.

While the A320 was taxiing prior to departure, the flight crew observed the Boeing 777 in close proximity on a crossing taxiway. Both aircraft were stopped abruptly. It was reported that a cabin crew member aboard the A320 was injured.

The initial evidence collection phase of the investigation will involve interviewing involved parties, retrieving and reviewing recorded data, and the collection of other relevant information.

The ATSB calls for anyone with video footage of the occurrence, or its immediate aftermath, to make contact with us via the witness form on our website.

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-2026-087
Occurrence date 09/08/2026
Location Sydney Airport
State New South Wales
Anticipated completion Q1 2027
Investigation level Short
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation phase Evidence collection
Investigation status Active
Mode of transport Aviation
Occurrence class Serious Incident
Highest injury level Minor

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Airbus
Model A320-232
Registration VH-VQJ
Serial number 2703
Aircraft operator Jetstar Airways
Sector Jet
Operation type Part 121 Air transport operations - larger aeroplanes
Activity Commercial air transport-Scheduled-Domestic
Departure point Sydney Airport, NSW
Destination Gold Coast Airport, Qld
Injuries Crew – 1 (minor)

Aircraft details

Manufacturer The Boeing Company
Model 777-300ER
Registration A7-BEU
Sector Jet