The ATSB is investigating a loss of separation assurance involving Embraer E190 (ERJ 190‑100), registration VH-UZI and Embraer E190, registration VH-XVS, that occurred 86 km west of Grafton Aerodrome, New South Wales on 20 August 2023.
At approximately 1540 EST, Embraer E190 VH-UZI was conducting a flight from Hobart to Brisbane maintaining FL 350, while Embraer E190 VH-XVS was conducting a flight from Brisbane to Canberra and climbing to FL 360. Air traffic control instructed VH-UZI, which was maintaining FL 350, to turn immediately to avoid conflict with the climbing VH-XVS, which was on a reciprocal flight path. VH-XVS was instructed to descend immediately.
The evidence collection phase of the investigation will involve interviewing the air traffic controller and flight crew, reviewing air traffic surveillance data, and the collection of other relevant evidence.
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 the relevant parties, so that appropriate safety action can be taken.