[Peetwo]

A WTD Headline? - 

From Popinjay HQ yesterday - this headline:

Weather diversion from Sydney Airport to an emergency alternate involving Qantas B787-9 VH-ZNJ, on 18 February 2023

Investigation link: https://www.atsb.gov.au/publications/inv...o-2023-009

Summary

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has commenced an investigation into the weather diversion from Sydney Airport to an emergency alternate airport involving Qantas B787-9, registered VH-ZNJ, on 18 February 2023.

During approach, the aircraft encountered moderate turbulence and high wind conditions and the approach became unstable. The crew conducted a missed approach and advised ATC of minimum fuel conditions. The crew diverted the aircraft to Williamtown where ground handling equipment was not sufficient for the aircraft size. The investigation is continuing.

A final report will be published at the conclusion of the investigation. Should any safety critical information be discovered at any time during the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify operators and regulators so appropriate and timely safety action can be taken.

Remember that this was what occurred (weather wise) in Sydney on that day:

Ref news link: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-02-18/s.../101994636 

Hmm...where to start with this one? 

Q/ Why has it taken nearly 3 weeks for 'Attributed to Popinjay' to decide to investigate? And why is the investigation level only listed as 'Short'? And why was this investigation slipped out with zero fanfare/media coverage and under the cover of the release of the Gold Coast midair prelim report? 

I'm not sure of the actual stats but I'd be surprised if I could count on more than 10 fingers the number of times a Qantas international aircraft has had to divert due wx to an 'emergency alternate' - 

MTF...P2