The Airbus A330-200 left Tullamarine on Monday night but ran into trouble close to Perth Airport.

A passenger aboard QF781 reported hearing a "loud noise" like a burst tyre.

One of the plane's engines suffered an issue as it approached Perth, a Qantas spokesperson confirmed.

"The pilots followed the procedures for this type of incident and manually shut down the engine and requested a priority landing," they said in a statement.

"These aircraft are designed to safely operate with one engine."

Passengers disembarked normally after the plane taxied to the gate under its own power, but engineers will examine the aircraft.

"We know this would have been unsettling for customers on board and we thank them for their co-operation and understanding," the spokesperson said.

These types of incidents are extremely rare, Australian and International Pilots Association president Tony Lucas said.

"The safety of our passengers, crew and cargo is always the priority for any pilot and we rigorously train for these unlikely scenarios," he added.

"The QF781 crew displayed great professionalism, skill and expertise in delivering a safe outcome for everyone."

Australian Associated Press