On November 21, an SAS A330-300, bound for Newark (EWR), was diverted to Copenhagen after suffering a tailstrike during its departure from Stockholm Arlanda Airport. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff, prompting the flight crew to follow standard safety protocols and make an emergency diversion to the nearest available airport. Fortunately, the aircraft landed safely in Copenhagen, and no injuries were reported among the 250 passengers and crew on board.
The tailstrike, a rare but serious occurrence, happens when the tail of an aircraft strikes the runway during takeoff, typically due to an incorrect angle of ascent. In this case, SAS confirmed that the plane had experienced an unexpected issue during the climb-out phase of the flight. The crew’s swift response and decision to divert to Copenhagen were in line with safety procedures designed to minimize risks in such situations.
Upon landing in Copenhagen, the aircraft was inspected by ground engineers, who assessed the extent of the damage. While the exact cause of the tailstrike remains under investigation, the airline confirmed that the aircraft would undergo thorough checks and any necessary repairs before it could resume service.
SAS has assured that all passengers were provided with assistance and rebooked on alternative flights to Newark. The airline also expressed its commitment to ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew, emphasizing that safety is always their top priority.
This incident serves as a reminder of the rigorous safety measures in place for commercial aviation and the importance of quick, decisive action in response to unexpected situations. The airline is continuing its investigation into the incident, working closely with aviation authorities to understand the cause of the tailstrike and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
In the wake of the incident, SAS has been praised for its handling of the situation, with passengers noting the professionalism of the crew throughout the diversion process. The airline remains focused on maintaining its high safety standards and providing quality service to its passengers.
