Qantas Boeing 787 Sustains Tyre and Wing Damage During Landing at Perth

On August 23rd, 2024, a Qantas Boeing 787-9, registration VH-ZNC, operating flight QF-6 from Rome Fiumicino (Italy) to Perth, Western Australia, sustained significant damage upon landing at Perth’s runway 24. The aircraft, which landed safely, suffered damage to several of its tyres during rollout. Fragments from the damaged tyres impacted and penetrated the underside of the wings, prompting concern about structural damage.

Incident Details:

• Tyre Damage and Wing Impact: During the landing, a number of the aircraft’s tyres were damaged, leading to tyre debris striking and penetrating the underside of the wings. The aircraft was able to roll out without further incident and taxied to the apron at Perth International Airport.
• Post-Flight Discovery: During a post-flight inspection and walk-around at Perth, the damage was found to be more extensive than initially thought. It was discovered that tyre tread separation had occurred during takeoff from Rome, which caused damage to the aircraft’s right wing. Cracks were found across two panels, and damage extended to one of the aircraft’s flaps.

Impact on Operations:

• Cancellation of Onward Flight: The damage to the aircraft led to the cancellation of the onward sector of the flight to Sydney, New South Wales, as the aircraft required repairs before it could return to service. Passengers were accommodated and rebooked on alternate flights.

Airline and ATSB Response:

• Qantas Statement: Qantas confirmed that the tyre tread separation occurred during takeoff from Rome, and while the aircraft continued to Perth without incident, the damage was only identified during the post-landing inspection in Perth. The airline took immediate measures to address the issue and arrange repairs for the affected aircraft.
• ATSB Decision: The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) reviewed the incident but decided not to open a formal investigation. They reasoned that the technical failure was appropriately managed by the flight crew and that the incident did not meet the threshold for further investigation, as safety was maintained throughout the flight.

Conclusion:

The incident involving the Qantas Boeing 787-9 highlights the importance of post-flight inspections and proper maintenance protocols. While the damage was substantial, it was effectively managed by the crew, and the safety of the passengers and aircraft was ensured. The cancellation of the onward flight to Sydney was a precautionary measure, allowing for thorough repairs and inspections before the aircraft was returned to service.