Taxiing conflict involving Airbus A321, VH-OGA and Boeing 737, VH-VXL, at Sydney Airport, New South Wales, on 18 August 2026

Summary

The ATSB is investigating a taxiing conflict involving an Airbus A321, VH-OGA, and a Boeing 737, VH-VXL, at Sydney Airport, New South Wales, on 18 August 2026.

After landing at Sydney on runway 34 right, the crew of a Boeing 737, operating Qantas flight QF589 from Gold Coast, Queensland, taxied west along taxiway L with a clearance to turn right at taxiway B. Meanwhile, an Airbus A321, operating Qantas flight QF405 to Melbourne, Victoria, taxied south along taxiway C with a clearance to turn right onto taxiway L. As the Airbus approached taxiway L, the crew observed the Boeing approaching from the left and stopped the aircraft.

The evidence collection phase of the investigation will involve interviewing involved air traffic controllers and flight crew, retrieving and 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.