A routine flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Hong Kong took an unexpected turn when a Cathay Pacific Airbus A350-1000 experienced a tail strike during a go-around maneuver at Hong Kong International Airport. The incident, which occurred on a recent Wednesday, highlights the complex and safety-critical nature of aviation procedures.

During the initial approach to runway 07C, the flight crew determined that the landing conditions were not suitable and initiated a go-around—a standard safety protocol designed to abort a landing attempt. However, during this procedure, the aircraft’s tail made contact with the runway surface, causing visible damage to the tail section.

Despite the unexpected contact, the pilots maintained professional composure. The A350 successfully climbed to an altitude of 6,000 feet and circled back for a second landing attempt, which was completed safely. Importantly, no passengers or crew members were injured during the incident, demonstrating the robust safety systems in modern aviation.

Photographs circulating after the event revealed noticeable skin damage to the aircraft’s tail, underscoring the impact of the runway contact. As a precautionary measure, Cathay Pacific immediately withdrew the affected Airbus A350-1000 from service. The aircraft remains parked at Chek Lap Kok airport, undergoing a comprehensive inspection and necessary repairs.

Go-around maneuvers are relatively common in aviation and are designed to prioritize safety when landing conditions are suboptimal. These can be triggered by various factors such as adverse weather, runway conditions, or other operational issues. While go-arounds themselves are standard, a tail strike during such a procedure is less frequent and requires thorough evaluation.

The Airbus A350-1000, a modern twin-engine wide-body jet, is a key component of Cathay Pacific’s long-haul fleet. Known for its fuel efficiency and advanced technology, the aircraft is typically a reliable workhorse for international routes. This incident, while significant, is unlikely to substantially disrupt the airline’s overall operations, though it may cause minor scheduling adjustments.

Cathay Pacific has not yet released detailed information about the specific cause of the tail strike or the factors that necessitated the go-around. However, the airline is expected to conduct a full investigation in collaboration with relevant authorities. Such investigations typically involve meticulous analysis of flight data, crew procedures, and aircraft performance to prevent future occurrences.

Hong Kong International Airport, one of the busiest aviation hubs in the Asia-Pacific region, handles a high volume of daily flights. The airport’s authorities, along with Cathay Pacific, will likely review the event to identify any contributing factors related to runway conditions or air traffic control communications.

The temporary grounding of the aircraft reflects standard industry practices to ensure airworthiness and passenger safety. While tail strikes can vary in severity, the damage in this case appears limited to the aircraft’s exterior. The thorough inspection process will ensure that any potential underlying structural issues are comprehensively addressed before the plane returns to service.

For passengers and aviation enthusiasts, this incident serves as a reminder of the rigorous safety protocols that govern modern air travel. It demonstrates how professional crews and robust safety systems work together to manage unexpected situations, prioritizing passenger safety above all else.

As the investigation continues, Cathay Pacific is expected to provide updates on the aircraft’s status and the findings of its comprehensive review. The airline’s transparent approach will help maintain trust among customers and stakeholders, reinforcing the aviation industry’s commitment to continuous improvement and safety.