Date: 24th October 2024
Location: Calgary International Airport, Alberta, Canada
Aircraft: De Havilland Dash 8-400, registration C-GWJK
Operator: WestJet Encore
Flight Number: WR-3371
Route: Saskatoon, SK to Calgary, AB, Canada
Occupants: 70 (Passengers and Crew)
Injuries: None reported
Summary of Events
On 24th October 2024, WestJet Encore flight WR-3371, a de Havilland Dash 8-400, experienced a tail strike while landing at Calgary International Airport. During the RNAV Y approach to Runway 35L in clear weather and light winds, the aircraft touched down at approximately 21:30L at a high pitch angle of 7 degrees nose up. The aircraft became momentarily airborne before touching down again 6 seconds later with a vertical acceleration of +2.17G. The flight crew received a “TOUCHED RUNWAY” advisory light, and the aircraft taxied to the apron without further incident.
The Canadian Transportation Safety Board (TSB) later confirmed substantial damage to the empennage, categorising the event as an accident.
Aircraft Information
The De Havilland Dash 8-400, commonly known as the Q400, is a twin-engine turboprop designed for regional operations. It features advanced aerodynamics and a robust undercarriage but requires precise handling during landing due to its high-performance characteristics.
Sequence of Events
1. Approach Phase:
• The aircraft was cleared for an RNAV Y approach to Runway 35L in clear weather and light winds.
2. Initial Landing Attempt:
• The aircraft touched down at a nose-up pitch angle of 7 degrees, exceeding typical landing attitudes.
• This led to a tail strike as the rear fuselage contacted the runway.
3. Go Around and Second Touchdown:
• The aircraft became airborne briefly after the initial touchdown.
• The crew reduced the pitch angle, resulting in a second touchdown 6 seconds later at +2.17G.
4. Post-Landing Actions:
• The flight crew received a “TOUCHED RUNWAY” advisory light.
• The aircraft taxied to the apron without further issues, and passengers disembarked normally.
Initial Findings
Contributing Factors
1. High Nose-Up Pitch:
• The aircraft touched down at an angle significantly higher than the optimal landing pitch, contributing to the tail strike.
2. Crew Management of Touchdown:
• A momentary lift-off after the initial touchdown suggests a less stabilised descent phase or flare technique.
3. Environmental Conditions:
• Although weather conditions were clear, the dynamics of light winds during the flare phase may have influenced aircraft handling.
Damage Assessment
The TSB reported substantial damage to the lower empennage caused by runway contact during the tail strike. This includes possible structural damage to:
• Fuselage: Rear bulkhead and skin panels.
• Empennage: Lower fin and tail cone.
Safety Risks
1. Structural Integrity:
• Tail strikes can lead to long-term structural fatigue if not adequately repaired.
2. Flight Crew Decision Making:
• Handling during flare and touchdown phases is critical to avoid excessive pitch angles.
3. Passenger Safety:
• Although no injuries occurred, the vertical acceleration of +2.17G during the second touchdown posed potential risks.
Recommendations
1. Crew Training and Procedures:
• Emphasise training on proper landing techniques, especially flare management to avoid excessive pitch angles.
2. Landing Monitoring Systems:
• Use of real-time monitoring systems to provide immediate feedback on pitch and descent rate during approach and landing.
3. Post-Incident Inspections:
• Implement thorough inspections of empennage and fuselage components following tail strikes to prevent undetected damage.
4. Data Analysis:
• Analyse operational data to identify trends in high-pitch landings and provide additional training or guidance where necessary.
Safety Lessons
This accident highlights the importance of precise handling during the landing phase, especially for high-performance turboprop aircraft like the Dash 8-400. It reinforces the need for consistent crew training on stabilised approaches and flare management to minimise the risks of tail strikes and structural damage.
Disclaimer
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Our investigation reports are based on all the evidence and facts available at the time of writing and posting. We apologise if any details are missed or are not fully accurate.
