Australian Aviation Faces Crisis Amid Shortage of Trained Controllers
Sydney Kingsfordsmith International Airport experienced significant disruptions on January 15, 2026, due to air traffic controller staff shortages. At least 30 Qantas and Jetstar flights were cancelled or delayed, with Airservices Australia attributing the issue to last-minute staff absences. The shortage reflects a wider crisis in Australian aviation since the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting efforts to recruit experienced air traffic controllers from the United States.