Sydney airport delays impact some New Zealand flights, air traffic controllers hit back at critics

Senior Business Reporter·NZ Herald·7 Aug, 2026 04:59 AM3 mins to read‌Qantas said air traffic control staff shortages caused some delays and cancellations on its services from Sydney. Photo / Getty ImagesDelays at Sydney airport, affecting some New Zealand flights, have been blamed on air traffic control staff shortages.But air traffic control agency Airservices Australia has hit back at criticism from airlines and commentators. It’s understood international flights were prioritised where possible. Still, a Qantas service to Christchurch scheduled