Qantas QF144: Mayday alert for Auckland to Sydney flight

Passengers and crew on board Qantas flight QF144 from Auckland to Sydney are still 15 minutes away from landing in Sydney after a mayday alert was issued.

It is understood the aircraft has suffered mechanical issues, with paramedics and firefighters on standby on the ground at Sydney Airport.

At 3.20pm, FlightRadar showed the flight currently over the Pacific Ocean and 30 kilometres away from Sydney.

The aircraft is a Boeing 737-838 and is flying at 4300 feet.

A mayday call is issued when a flight is in grave and imminent danger and needs immediate assistance, according to Airservices Australia.

Once the call is issued controllers alert aviation rescue, firefighting and emergency services with details on how to respond. They also provide assistance to pilots.

With Australian Associated Press