The recent fine imposed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on IndiGo Airlines due to frequent tail strike incidents on their A321 aircraft has raised concerns about the safety of aircraft during landings and takeoffs. Tail strikes, which occur when the tail of an aircraft hits the ground or any stationary object, can lead to severe damage and compromise the safety of passengers and crew.
Factors that Make Aircraft Prone to Tail Strikes
Tail strikes can happen to all types of planes, but certain aircraft designs are more susceptible to this issue. The A321 model of Airbus, which was involved in IndiGo’s tail strike incidents, features a “stretched fuselage,” measuring 146 feet in length. According to experts, tail strikes have become more common as manufacturers increasingly make aircraft with longer fuselages. The extended length of the fuselage increases the risk of the tail hitting the runway during takeoffs and landings.
Tail Skids as a Protective Measure
To mitigate the risk of tail strikes, many aircraft are equipped with tail skids. A tail skid is a small attachment located at the bottom of the aircraft’s tail section. It is designed to absorb the impact in case the tail strikes the ground. While tail skids can provide some level of protection, they are not foolproof, and proper pilot training and procedures are essential to prevent tail strikes.
When Do Tail Strikes Happen?
Tail strikes can occur under various conditions, including both daylight and darkness and in good or bad weather. However, the flight crew’s experience with the specific aircraft model plays a crucial role in tail strike occurrences. An article in AERO, a quarterly magazine published by Boeing, highlighted that most tail strikes occur when pilots are transitioning from one airplane model to another and have fewer than 100 hours of flight time in the new model.
Furthermore, incidents are most significant among pilots during their first heavy-weight operations in the new model, especially when the weather is marginal. This highlights the importance of continuous training and familiarization with new aircraft types to reduce the risk of tail strikes.
Distribution of Tail Strikes during Landings and Takeoffs
According to data from Airbus, approximately 65 percent of tail strikes occur during landings, while the remaining incidents happen during takeoffs. During the landing phase, the aircraft’s approach angle and descent rate need careful control to prevent the tail from hitting the runway during the flare and touchdown. During takeoff, the angle at which the aircraft rotates also needs careful attention to avoid tail strikes.
Role of Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)
The DGCA is the regulatory body responsible for ensuring safety in the field of civil aviation in India. It oversees air transport services to, from, and within India and enforces civil air regulations, air safety, and airworthiness standards. The primary functions of DGCA include aircraft registration, airport certification, licensing of aviation personnel, and formulation of airworthiness standards.
Coordination with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO)
The DGCA works in coordination with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), a specialized agency of the United Nations. This cooperation ensures that India aligns its aviation practices and standards with global best practices, enhancing safety and efficiency in the aviation sector.