Casualties unknown

2025-11-26: A350-1041 (B-LXO) — Abnormal Runway Contact of A350-1041 at Hong Kong International Airport, HK

Abnormal Runway Contact of A350-1041 at Hong Kong International Airport, HK

On November 26, 2025, an A350-1041 (registration B-LXO) was involved in an aviation accident near Abnormal Runway Contact of A350-1041 at Hong Kong International Airport, HK. This summary draws on records from the Air Accident Investigation Authority of Hong Kong (AAIA).

Sourcesthe Air Accident Investigation Authority of Hong Kong (AAIA)Primary reportUpdated 1785027978Data APIEditorial standards
Aircraft registered B-LXO
Aircraft registered B-LXO. Photo: Dltl2010 / CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

On 26 November 2025, an Airbus A350-1041 operated by Cathay Pacific Airways suffered a tail strike during a go-around at Hong Kong International Airport. No injuries were reported; the aircraft sustained rear fuselage damage.

Occurrence

On 26 November 2025, at approximately 2332 hours local time, an Airbus A350-1041, registered B-LXO, was on a passenger flight from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City) to Hong Kong International Airport. The aircraft was approaching Runway 07C when, during the flare, the flight crew decided to initiate a go-around for operational reasons. As the go-around procedure was executed, the rear section of the aircraft contacted the runway surface.

Aftermath

Following the tail strike, the aircraft returned for a safe landing. All 15 crew members and 282 passengers deplaned without injury at a parking bay. The aircraft was subsequently towed to a maintenance area for inspection.

Aircraft Damage

Post-flight examination revealed abrasion of the lower fuselage skin from frame station (FR) 80 to FR88 and from FR92 to the Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) tail cone. The tail strike sensor, the toilet waste panel, and the APU compartment vent pipes were also damaged.

Investigation

The Air Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) of Hong Kong has initiated an investigation into the serious incident. The Bureau d'enquêtes et d'analyses pour la sécurité de l'aviation civile (BEA), representing the State of Design and Manufacture, has nominated an Accredited Representative to participate. The Civil Aviation Department (CAD) has also been notified. The investigation team has conducted interviews with the flight crew and collected flight data, cockpit voice recordings, and relevant documents. A detailed analysis is underway to determine the circumstances and causes of the event. The investigation is expected to conclude within twelve months.

Public Notice

In accordance with Section 10(1) of Cap. 448B, the AAIA has issued a public notice inviting representations regarding the circumstances or causes of the incident within 14 days.

Investigation report by the Air Accident Investigation Authority of Hong Kong (AAIA). Original record: https://www.tlb.gov.hk/aaia/doc/PLR-2025-05_Eng.pdf. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the Air Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA), Hong Kong SAR.