Summary
The ATSB is investigating control issues involving an Airbus A321, VH-OFS, near Sydney Airport, New South Wales on 10 August 2026.
The aircraft was operating Jetstar Airways flight JQ987 from Perth, Western Australia to Sydney. During the approach into Sydney and while descending below about 3,500 ft, the autopilot disengaged and the aircraft began an uncommanded climb. The flight crew reengaged the autopilot, continued the approach and landed without further incident.
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.
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-2026-089 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 10/08/2026 |
| Occurrence time and timezone | 22:23 Australian Eastern Standard Time |
| Location | Near Sydney Airport |
| State | New South Wales |
| Report status | Pending |
| Anticipated completion | Q1 2027 |
| Investigation level | Short |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation phase | Evidence collection |
| Investigation status | Active |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Control issues, Turbulence/windshear/microburst |
| Occurrence class | Incident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Airbus |
|---|---|
| Model | A321-251NX |
| Registration | VH-OFS |
| Serial number | 11229 |
| Aircraft operator | Jetstar Airways Pty Limited |
| Sector | Jet |
| Operation type | Part 121 Air transport operations - larger aeroplanes |
| Activity | Commercial air transport-Scheduled-Domestic |
| Departure point | Perth Airport, Western Australia |
| Destination | Sydney Airport, New South Wales |
| Injuries | None |
| Damage | Nil |