The Qantas-operated Boeing 737-800, registration VH-XZB, had to make an emergency call on 18 January 2023 en route from Auckland to Sydney. The medium-haul jet was flying number QF144.

The machine was over the Pacific Ocean, about an hour from Sydney, when the pilots transmitted the transponder code "7700", which stands for Mayday, i.e. air emergency. Shortly before landing, the pilots downgraded the situation to "Pan-Pan". This always happens when there is a problem but the captain believes that it is largely under control. However, "pan-pan" also means that priority is requested for the landing.

The VH-XZB suffered an engine failure. The pilots initially classified the situation as dangerous, which is why Mayday was initially announced. Shortly thereafter, however, it was believed that a landing in Sydney was certainly possible. Thus, the flight continued under pan-pan conditions. Qantas' Boeing 737-800 also landed safely.

On board were 145 passengers. They were able to exit the plane safely in Sydney. Rescue workers and the fire brigade were deployed as a precaution. Fortunately, their support was not needed. What caused the engine failure, which passengers heard with a loud bang, is still unclear. This is to be found out in an investigation.