What happened
On 13 April 2024, a Bombardier Inc. DHC-8-402, operated by WestJet Encore Ltd., was performing a scheduled flight from Fort McMurray Airport, Alberta, to Calgary International Airport, Alberta. During the landing phase at Calgary, the aircraft's tail made contact with the runway surface. This impact triggered a "TOUCHED RUNWAY" alert within the cockpit.
Following the contact, the aircraft continued its taxi to the gate. The passengers were permitted to deplane, and baggage was unloaded according to standard procedures. There were no injuries reported as a result of the event.
The investigation
Subsequent inspections conducted by the maintenance team revealed that the impact caused significant damage to the lower aft section of the fuselage. As a result of the structural damage, the aircraft was removed from active service.