Australia’s air safety watchdog has revealed alarming details of two near-collisions at Melbourne’s Tullamarine Airport, where passenger planes almost struck construction workers and vehicles after a runway was unexpectedly shortened by 1,600 meters in 2023.  

According to the Australian Transport Safety Bureau’s (ATSB) final report, the pilots of two international carriers — Malaysia Airlines and Bamboo Airways — were unaware that the runway length had been temporarily reduced for resurfacing work. The miscommunication led to two separate near-miss incidents, just 11 days apart, that could have resulted in catastrophe.  

During the resurfacing project, parts of the runway were closed at night, but the temporary restrictions were not properly conveyed to flight crews through standard aviation notices. As a result, both aircraft attempted takeoff or landing on a runway section still occupied by maintenance crews and equipment.  

The ATSB’s investigation found multiple lapses in coordination between airport operations, air traffic control, and the airlines involved. The agency emphasized the need for stricter communication procedures and safety oversight when major infrastructure work occurs at active airports.  

While no injuries or damage occurred, the incidents highlight how breakdowns in information flow can endanger both aviation personnel and passengers. Officials have since implemented new safeguards to prevent similar misunderstandings during future runway maintenance.