Can A Boeing 777-300ER Tail Strike On Takeoff?
Most fixed wing aircraft, large and small, can have a tail strike on takeoff if mishandled. Tail skids are installed by manufacturers on the models judged to be particularly susceptible to tail strikes. So if you see a tail skid on an airliner it does not mean it can not have a tail strike – just the opposite – it means it is more likely to have one. The purpose of the tail skid – like a bumper on a car – is to limit structural damage when a strike occurs. Tail skid usually contains a crushable shock absorber – which needs to be replaced after a tail strike. The aircraft also needs to undergo inspection before being returned to service.
