Incident Overview
On January 9, 2025, a UPS Boeing 767-300 freighter, registration N324UP, operating flight 5X-2918 from Louisville, KY, to Ontario, CA, diverted to San Bernardino, CA, due to operational requirements. During landing on runway 06 at San Bernardino, the crew reported becoming destabilized just before touchdown due to windshear, resulting in a tail strike. The aircraft taxied to the apron without further incident. No injuries were reported.
Sequence of Events
1. Flight Details:
• Departure: Louisville, KY (KSDF).
• Planned Arrival: Ontario, CA (KONT).
• Diversion: San Bernardino, CA (KSBD).
2. Landing Phase:
• The approach to runway 06 at San Bernardino was reportedly stable until the final moments.
• The crew encountered windshear during the flare, causing the aircraft’s pitch to increase.
• A tail strike occurred as the aft section of the fuselage made contact with the runway surface.
3. Post-Landing Actions:
• The crew communicated the tail strike to air traffic control and taxied the aircraft to the apron.
• Emergency services were not required.
Technical Analysis
1. Tail Strike Causes:
• Windshear Encounter: Sudden changes in wind direction and speed likely destabilized the approach.
• High Pitch Attitude: The crew’s attempt to recover from windshear-induced instability may have resulted in excessive pitch during touchdown.
2. Aircraft Damage:
• Tail strikes on the Boeing 767 can cause damage to the aft fuselage, including deformation or breaches of the skin, structural frame damage, or auxiliary components such as antennas or drain masts.
• Inspection and repair protocols for tail strikes typically involve evaluating structural integrity and skin deformation using non-destructive testing methods.
Safety Actions and Recommendations
1. Crew Training:
• Reinforce simulator training on windshear recovery techniques, particularly during low-altitude operations.
2. Approach and Landing Risk Mitigation:
• Emphasize adherence to stabilized approach criteria and mandatory go-around procedures if destabilized during the final approach phase.
3. Aircraft Inspection and Maintenance:
• Conduct a comprehensive structural inspection of the aft fuselage.
• Check and validate pitch trim systems and flight data for abnormalities during the landing phase.
4. Windshear Detection:
• Evaluate the performance of windshear detection systems at San Bernardino to determine if additional safety measures are warranted.
Conclusion
The crew’s ability to stabilize the aircraft post-windshear and execute a safe rollout prevented further complications. A detailed inspection of the aircraft and a thorough review of operational procedures will help identify contributing factors to prevent future occurrences.
Disclaimer:
This report is based on available information as of January 12, 2025. Updates may follow pending further investigation. For content concerns, contact takedown@cockpitking.com.
