Near-miss between JQ and Learjet

[Russell D]

Safety watchdog probes air confusion
July 18, 2008, 6:36 am

Australia's air safety watchdog is investigating a report that a US Learjet came within 60 seconds of a possible collision with a Jetstar Airbus because of confusion about uncontrolled airspace.

The incident reportedly occurred last Saturday after a section of airspace on the Melbourne to Sydney route suddenly became un monitored at 7.30am (AEST) due to an air traffic control staff shortage.

News Ltd has reported it has obtained the incident report that was lodged by the air traffic controller on duty, which states the Learjet pilot was "briefly uncontactable" because he was on a different frequency.

The incident report also states the controller was "concerned" about the risk to northbound air traffic, particularly Jetstar flight JS720.

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority has confirmed it is investigating while the air traffic controllers' union says it shows the current safety regime has unacceptable safety levels.

"Aeroplanes passing 15 miles apart may seem like a lot," Robert Mason, from the union Civil Air, said.

"But they are travelling so fast that in some scenarios there can be less than 60 seconds to react and avoid an incident."

Government body Airservices Australia says the 15 nautical mile separation was three times the required limit in that sector.

There was "no safety occurrence and no breakdown of air traffic control safety standards," a spokesman said.

From AAP