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The ATSB has launched an investigation into a breakdown of separation incident between a Qantas 767-300 and what is reported to be a Virgin Blue 737-700 near Melbourne on December 5.
“The two aircraft were tracking on the same route when separation reduced to 1.9nm horizontally and 300ft vertically,” the ATSB website reads. “Separation standards were infringed. The investigation is continuing.”
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The ATSB lists the event as a “serious incident”. Minimum vertical separation is normally 1000ft.
“The aircraft did not present any immediate flight safety issue,” a Qantas spokesperson told the Herald Sun newspapers.
“(The) crew observed all air traffic control instructions at all times and had visual contact with the other aircraft at all times.”
The Qantas 767-300 was VH-OGU, operating a flight from Melbourne to Sydney, the 737 too had departed Melbourne, reportedly for Brisbane.
The ATSB says the incident took place 28km to the west of Melbourne Airport.
