Passengers travelling through Sydney Airport faced a difficult Friday morning after a shortage of air traffic controllers forced authorities to limit traffic and manage arrivals more cautiously.
About 14 inbound flights were cancelled and some delays stretched beyond an hour before operations began returning toward normal later in the day.
Why flights were disrupted
Airservices Australia said unplanned absences and longer-term staffing gaps contributed to the disruption. The agency has 49 controllers at the airport, but staffing levels needed for full operations are higher than the number available on the affected shift.
Officials have also been dealing with fatigue concerns and increased scrutiny after recent near-miss incidents involving aircraft operating in the airport area.
What passengers should expect
Travellers should check directly with their airline before heading to the airport, particularly during periods of reduced air-traffic capacity. Delays can continue even after a staffing problem is stabilized because aircraft and crews may be out of position.
The aviation authority says recruitment and staffing measures are being strengthened to reduce the risk of another major disruption.
