Why was SQ231 diverted today?

[Guvner]

Was out the backyard and an SQ A380 flew over. Thinking it was unusual for this time of day I checked F24 and saw this:



Anybody know why is was diverted to MEL?

edit: just saw the news regarding a fire at SYD control tower.

 

[dajop]

Took me 5 seconds on google to find this ... Sydney Airport control tower evacuated, flights grounded

Seems VA1531 from HBA was diverted to CBR. JQ 510 was already over Goulburn, and VA 837 around Cootamundra, before they both returned to MEL. VA 552 from PER diverted to CBR. VA 938 from BNE is heading to CFS.

 

[Guvner]

Thanks for the snarky reply, much appreciated.

 

[kelvedon]

There’s a Hercules circling too

 

[dajop]

Thanks for the snarky reply, much appreciated.

Didn't mean it to be snarky, but often you will get an answer much quicker on google (searching news) than waiting for a reply on AFF ...
Sometimes you won't of course, which is where this site comes in handy.

I guess you have to search the right terms, but the logical explanations for SQ diversion to MEL after being so close to SYD would be hijacking (very unlikely) or sudden closure of SYD to inbound traffic (you wouldn't think medical or technical emergencies would result in diversion to MEL), so I typed "Sydney Airport closed" and found an answer much quicker than asking on AFF.

 

[Denali]

Ive got staff stuck in Melb for the night as flights cancelled and unable to rebook until tomorrow. Got staff stuck in Sydney for same reason