A disturbing incident at Sydney Airport saw Qantas employees fall 20 feet through a hole in the aerobridge. Recently released footage shows Customer Service Representative Olivia Fristowska approaching the edge of the aerobridge, peering down at the tarmac through a small window.
She appears unaware of the significant gap beneath her, as the sides of the aerobridge separate from the platform. As she nears the hole, a colleague notices her fall but is unable to intervene in time.
Fristowska, a 51-year-old Customer Experience manager, was hospitalized following the fall last month. She sustained serious injuries, including a life-threatening head injury, a collapsed lung, multiple rib fractures, and damage to her collarbone, pelvis, and spine.
After her hospital stay, she returned home to care for her two adult daughters, but continues to struggle with the aftermath of her injuries.
“Bones can heal, but you don’t know about brains,” her daughter Monique said in a recent interview, describing the family’s experience during this difficult time as “traumatic.” Monique learned the details of the accident from doctors and the media.
In a statement, Qantas executive Darsh Chapman acknowledged that the incident is under investigation. He expressed regret for the severe impact it had on Fristowska and her family.
Chapman mentioned that the company has been in close contact with her family since the incident and is committed to supporting her recovery while respecting their privacy.
“Everyone at Qantas and Sydney Airport is eager to understand what went wrong and is conducting a thorough investigation, collaborating with Safework NSW,” he added. “Meanwhile, both Qantas and Sydney Airports have enhanced their safety protocols, with Qantas consulting independent experts to improve aerobridge safety at airports nationwide and globally.”
