A321 full load such a short hop would be interesting to see some performance numbers vs empty. Where would a diversion point be? LST? ADL?
Emirates recently did a AVV-MEL hop A380. But in saying that, by the time they re fuel and gain a new landing time due delays, and it’s Melbourne so could be anything from 1-3 hours, it’s probably better to just get rid of the pax rather than keeping them onboard for near 2 hours.
Crew hours should not be much of an issue here, this specific duty appears to have a sign on at 6am.
This aircraft was being used in and out of Sydney tonight and it’s on the last 10pm out so they don’t have much leeway if they are behind.