Investigation number
AO-2024-064
Occurrence date
Location
Canberra Airport
State
Australian Capital Territory
Report status
Pending
Investigation level
Short
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation phase
Examination and analysis
Investigation status
Active
Aviation occurrence category
Aircraft preparation
Loading related
Occurrence class
Incident
Highest injury level
None
Anticipated completion

The ATSB is investigating an occurrence involving a Boeing 737-838, registration VH-XZK, at Canberra Airport, Australian Capital Territory, on 1 December 2024. 

The aircraft was operating as Qantas flight QF644, scheduled from Perth, Western Australia, to Sydney, New South Wales. The flight had diverted into Canberra Airport due to operational requirements. The occurrence flight was the second sector Canberra to Sydney.

After departing Canberra for Sydney, the load sheet was discovered to be in excess of 4 tonnes in error. 

No adverse aircraft handling characteristics were reported by the crew during the take-off and the operator's review of the flight data has not currently revealed any performance abnormalities.

The ATSB has commenced the examination and analysis of the initial evidence collected.

To date, the ATSB investigation has included:

  • interviewing the flight crew, ground crew and cabin crew
  • reviewing policies and procedures relevant to the generation and application of a load sheet.

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.

Last Updated
Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
The Boeing Company
Model
737-838
Registration
VH-XZK
Aircraft Operator
Qantas Airways Limited
Serial number
39366
Operation type
Part 121 Air transport operations - larger aeroplanes
Sector
Jet
Departure point
Perth Airport, Western Australia
Destination
Sydney Airport, New South Wales
Damage
Nil