What happened
On 13 April 2023, at approximately 15:36 local time, a Boeing 737-820 and operated by Malta Air experienced a tail strike during the takeoff roll from runway 31 at Malta International Airport (LMML). The aircraft, registration 9H-VVH, was performing a scheduled flight to Riga International Airport, Latvia.
During the rotation phase of the takeoff, the aircraft's tail made contact with the runway surface. Following the occurrence, the crew continued the takeoff and climbed to an altitude of 5,500 feet. The flight then joined the holding pattern at TIVOR before returning to Malta International Airport for a second landing attempt on runway 31. The aircraft landed approximately 38 minutes after its initial departure without further incident. There were no injuries among the 191 occupants on board.
At the time of the event, the crew reported weather conditions as CAVOK with winds from 230 degrees at 20 knots and a dry runway, consistent with the ATIS information provided. During takeoff clearance, the tower reported winds of 230 degrees at 12 knots.
The investigation
The Bureau of Air Accident Investigation (BAAI) conducted an investigation into the event. Physical inspections of the aircraft revealed that the tail skid showed evidence of a strike and the tail cartridge was found to be compressed, though the fuse pin remained intact. The operator reported that no structural damage was sustained by the aircraft.
A physical mark matching the color of the aircraft was identified on the centerline of runway 31, located just past the intersection with taxiway F. While the crew noted that the takeoff roll had been initiated at the intersection with taxiway C, investigators examined the runway markings and the sequence of events leading to the rotation.