What happened
On 9 February 2020, a Boeing 787-900, registration VH-ZND, was preparing for a scheduled passenger flight from London Heathrow Airport to Perth, Australia. The departure occurred during the height of Storm Ciara, characterized by intense rainfall and significant wind gusts. As the aircraft accelerated down Runway 27R, it encountered highly unstable wind conditions, with surface winds reported at 220° at 28 knots, gusting up to 44 knots.
Upon reaching the rotation speed of 172 KIAS, the pilot flying initiated rotation during a period of rapid airspeed fluctuation. During the rotation process, the aircraft's pitch rate increased significantly. The movement of the control wheel also caused the left spoilers to deploy further, which reduced lift on that side of the aircraft. This sequence of events caused the aircraft to reach a pitch attitude of 9.7°, exceeding the safe threshold and resulting in the tail strike sensor contacting the runway surface. Following the incident, the crew received an EICAS tail strike message and, following established procedures, returned to Heathrow for an overweight landing.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's flight data, including the Continuous Parameter Logging and Flight Data Recorder. Investigators analyzed the aircraft's configuration, weight, and center of gravity, finding the aircraft was within all permitted takeoff limits. The investigation also reviewed meteorological data from Heathrow, confirming the presence of an active occluded front and severe gusting winds.
Technical examination of the aircraft revealed that the tip of the tail strike detection sensor had been abraded by contact with the runway, though no further structural damage was identified. The investigation also reviewed the performance of the Boeing 787's tail strike protection system, which had activated to attempt to reduce the pitch rate during the event.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating within its authorized weight, center of gravity, and wind limitations.
- Strong, gusty winds caused rapid airspeed fluctuations immediately prior to rotation.
- A high pitch rate near the point of lift-off, combined with the deployment of left-wing spoilers due to control wheel inputs, led to the tail contact.
- The increased pitch angle reached the critical 9.7° threshold, causing the tail strike sensor to strike the runway.