ATSB probes Townsville near miss between Jetstar plane and van

“During the approach to land on runway 01, the A320 flight crew observed a white van entering the runway at the threshold,” the ATSB said.

“The vehicle was stopped at the outer edge of the runway as the aircraft passed at approximately 50 ft above ground level. The aircraft subsequently landed and the vehicle resumed crossing the runway.

“The 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.”

In a statement, a Jetstar spokesperson said, “Safety is our number one priority, and we are working with the ATSB to understand the circumstances surrounding this incident.”

As Townsville Airport shares its footprint with RAAF Base Townsville, air traffic control is provided by the RAAF, and a Defence spokesperson confirmed to the media that the department is participating in the investigation.

VIEW ALL

>

“Defence is working closely with the ATSB regarding its investigation into a runway incursion and near collision at RAAF Base Townsville/Townsville Airport on 7 October 2026, after a vehicle entered a restricted airside area,” the spokesman said.

“As this matter is under investigation Defence will make no further comment at this time.”

As reported by the ABC, this makes the fourth incident under ATSB investigation at or near Townsville Airport in the last two months, including a performance calculation error on a Jetstar flight, a mayday call due to low fuel on a Qantas flight, and a mid-air near collision between a Dash 8 and a two-seater aircraft.