Overview
On December 19th, 2024, an Air Calédonie ATR-72-212A operating flight TY-317 from Nouméa to Ouvea (New Caledonia) experienced a tail strike during landing at Ouvea Airport. Initial reports indicate the aircraft sustained unknown damage, and at least one minor injury was reported.
The French BEA is leading the investigation, and discrepancies in identifying the involved aircraft have been noted.
Incident Details
Flight Information
• Aircraft Type: ATR-72-212A
• Involved Registration: Disputed; BEA states F-OZKN, but ADS-B data suggests F-OZNO.
• Operator: Air Calédonie
• Flight Number: TY-317
• Route: Nouméa (NWWM) to Ouvea (NWWV)
Sequence of Events
1. Approach and Landing:
• The aircraft was on final approach to Ouvea Airport in daytime visual meteorological conditions.
• During touchdown, the aircraft’s tail impacted the runway, leading to a tail strike.
2. Aftermath:
• The aircraft successfully completed the return flight (TY-318) to Nouméa later the same day without further incident.
• After returning to Nouméa, the aircraft remained grounded for 22.5 hours, conducted a test flight (TY-7201) within Nouméa, and subsequently remained out of service for three days before resuming operations.
3. Injuries and Damage:
• One minor injury has been reported among passengers or crew.
• The extent of the aircraft damage is currently unknown and under investigation by the French BEA.
Investigation
Preliminary Findings
1. Aircraft Involvement:
• The French BEA identified the aircraft as F-OZKN, but ADS-B records show this aircraft was not near Ouvea on the date of the incident.
• F-OZNO is confirmed to have operated flights TY-307/308 and TY-317/318 on December 19th, 2024, and is the likely aircraft involved.
2. Operational Factors:
• A high approach angle or incorrect landing technique could have contributed to the tail strike.
• Weather conditions at the time of landing were favourable, ruling out adverse weather as a contributing factor.
3. Maintenance Actions:
• Following the incident, the aircraft was grounded for 22.5 hours, likely for inspections.
• A test flight was conducted to verify airworthiness before returning to service.
Recommendations
Immediate Actions
1. Aircraft Inspection:
• Perform a thorough structural inspection of the fuselage, tail section, and landing gear to assess damage.
• Verify flight control systems and landing gear integrity following the tail strike.
2. Data Analysis:
• Review flight data recorder (FDR) and cockpit voice recorder (CVR) for insight into approach and landing parameters.
3. Crew Interviews:
• Conduct detailed interviews with the flight crew to understand the approach dynamics, control inputs, and situational awareness during landing.
Long-Term Recommendations
1. Pilot Training:
• Reinforce training on proper landing techniques and energy management during approach to prevent tail strikes.
2. Operational Review:
• Evaluate standard operating procedures for approach configurations at short runways like Ouvea to minimise risks.
3. Reporting Accuracy:
• Resolve discrepancies in aircraft identification to ensure precise incident reporting and analysis.
Conclusion
This tail strike highlights the importance of proper landing technique, especially at regional airports with short runways. While the exact aircraft involved is under review, the investigation should prioritise understanding the sequence of events leading to the tail strike and implement measures to prevent recurrence.
Disclaimer
This report is based on the facts and evidence available at the time of writing. We apologise for any omissions or inaccuracies. For image takedowns, please contact takedown@cockpitking.com.
