Event Details
During a pilot competency checkride, the aircraft was on the downwind leg of the traffic pattern when the examiner requested a zero flap, power-off, 180-degree approach and landing. As the airplane approached the threshold, the pilot observed higher than normal airspeed and a greater than normal angle of attack. In response, the pilot increased the angle of attack until the stick shaker activated, at which point a go-around maneuver was performed.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that during the go-around, the tail struck the runway. However, the pilot did not recall feeling the tail make contact with the runway surface. After the go-around, the pilot successfully completed the maneuver without further incident.
Aircraft Damage
Subsequent inspection of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the rudder as a result of the tailstrike. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.