History of the Flight
On February 15, 2020, Air India A321-211 aircraft VT-PPU (MSN 4096) was operating flight AI-852 from Pune to Delhi. The aircraft had 2 cockpit crew, 5 cabin crew, and 180 passengers on board. After completing pre-takeoff checks and obtaining line-up clearance, the aircraft was aligned on runway 10 (QFU-095°) at 02:38:00 UTC. The gross weight was 77.3t (MTOW 89t), CG at 27.4%, slats/flaps in configuration 1+F (18°/10°), THS at -0.2°, ground spoilers armed, and autobrake set to MAX. The takeoff roll began using FLEX thrust at 02:38:42 UTC.
During the takeoff roll, at approximately 120 knots, the Pilot-in-Command (PIC) observed a vehicle and a person standing next to it on the runway. The PIC determined that a rejected takeoff was not possible due to the short distance and immediately applied TOGA thrust and initiated an early rotation to avoid a collision. After becoming airborne, the PIC informed Pune ATC about the vehicle on the runway. The crew did not notice any unusual sounds or indications of a tail strike during the rotation.
Later, during the climb at approximately FL150, the cabin supervisor reported that one aft cabin crew member had heard an abnormal sound for a few seconds. The PIC contacted Pune ATC for a runway inspection, which found no debris or scrap marks. As all operational parameters and pressurization were normal, the flight continued to Delhi and landed safely.
After parking at Delhi, during an external inspection, the PIC observed paint scrap marks on the tail portion of the aircraft. No fire or injuries occurred.
Damage to Aircraft
The damage was limited to the aft belly area. External findings included skin scrap marks between frames FR65 and FR69 and between stringers STGR 42R and 42L. Material loss and cracks were noted at FR66, FR67, and FR68 near stringers 43L, 44, and 43R. Several cleats at these frames and stringers showed scrap marks visible through gaps in the external skin. The drain mast was damaged, and a drain tube at FR70 had a minor scrap mark with no other damage. Internal inspection revealed no damage to corresponding frames or stringers, and no cracks or bending on cleats viewed from inside.
Personnel Information
The PIC held an ATPL with 7,090 total flying hours, including 3,670 hours on type and 1,670 hours as PIC on type. He had flown to Pune more than 10 times in the last 12 months. The Co-Pilot held a CPL and had joined the company in February 2017. Both crew were tested negative for alcohol before the flight.
Injuries
No injuries were reported among the 7 crew or 180 passengers.
Other Details
The occurrence was classified as a serious incident. The type of occurrence was tail strike/incursion. The phase of operation was takeoff.