FLIGHTS bound for Sydney have been diverted to Newcastle Airport after a grass fire began amid an emergency landing on the eastern side of the metropolitan airport's parallel runway.
Fire and Rescue NSW is working alongside lead agency Aviation Rescue and Firefighting to extinguish the grass fire that ignited next to the third runway.
Earlier today a Brisbane-bound flight made an emergency return to Sydney Airport, landing safely just after 1pm, Sydney Airport said in an online statement.
"This departure of aircraft coincided with a grass fire along the eastern side of the airport's parallel runway, which was brought under control by teams from the Aviation Rescue Fire Fighting Service," the statement said.
"It's not clear at this stage if the two incidents are linked and investigations are continuing.
"With the safe arrival of the aircraft, Sydney Airport's priority is to conduct a full inspection of its parallel runway and to return it to service as quickly as possible."
Sydney Airport's main runway is operational, however passengers should expect delays.
"We thank everyone for their patience," the Sydney Airport statement said.
Newcastle Airport confirmed in an online statement that due to the incident in Sydney earlier today, some flights bound for Sydney have been diverted to Newcastle.
"Our terminal is operating as normal," it said.
"Contact your airline directly for flight information."
