A Qantas Airbus A330 caused significant damage to the main runway during its takeoff from Perth, Australia.
The incident occurred on September 15, 2024. It involved the Qantas Airways Airbus A330-200 aircraft, registered VH-EBD, as the plane accelerated for departure from Perth Airport (PER) on flight QF-71 bound for Singapore (SIN).
Witnesses and airport surveillance footage captured the moment when the Airbus A330’s powerful thrust dislodged sections of the newly resurfaced runway. As the plane accelerated, fragments of tarmac were seen being thrown into the air behind it, creating a visible trail of debris.
According to flight history data from Flightradar24.com, the aircraft took off at approximately 12:15 p.m. local time.
Despite the runway damage, the aircraft completed its takeoff and landed safely at Singapore’s Changi Airport about five hours later.
In response to the incident, Perth Airport officials confirmed that the runway remained partially operational. Immediate maintenance work was undertaken to address the pavement damage. The airport assured passengers and airlines that subsequent flights could land safely, minimizing any operational disruptions.
An airport spokesperson explained to The West Australian that the damage was identified during a safety inspection conducted after the aircraft’s departure. The spokesperson added that “pavement maintenance works are now underway” to repair the affected areas.
Local authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the pavement damage, aiming to prevent similar incidents in the future.
