Failure to pass traffic involving Airbus A320, VH-VFX, at Sydney Airport, New South Wales, on 25 August 2026

Summary

The ATSB is investigating an incident where complete traffic information was not passed to a Jetstar Airways Airbus A320-232 (A320), registration VH-VFX, before pushback at Sydney Airport, New South Wales, on 25 August 2026.

Prior to the Airbus A320 pushing back from the bay, the air traffic controller did not advise the crew of a second aircraft that was taxiing behind their aircraft resulting in a confliction with that aircraft. It was reported that the pushback crew identified the conflicting aircraft, stopped the pushback and returned the A320 to the bay.

The evidence collection phase of the investigations will involve interviewing involved air traffic controllers and flight crew, reviewing available 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.