Turkish Airlines Airbus A321-271NX Tailstrike Incident at Václav Havel Airport

In a recent incident that has garnered significant attention on social media, a Turkish Airlines Airbus A321-271NX experienced a tailstrike during a go-around at Václav Havel Airport in Prague. The event, which occurred on Sunday, May 14, 2025, has sparked discussions regarding aircraft safety and operational procedures in aviation. The video footage of the incident has been widely shared, highlighting the importance of vigilance and adherence to protocol during critical flight maneuvers.

What Happened During the Incident?

The Airbus A321-271NX was in the process of executing a go-around when the tailstrike occurred. A go-around is a standard procedure that pilots may perform when landing conditions are not ideal, requiring them to abort the landing and climb back to a safe altitude. While go-arounds are not uncommon in aviation, they require precise execution and awareness from the flight crew to ensure the safety of the aircraft and its passengers.

Understanding Tailstrikes

A tailstrike occurs when the tail of an aircraft contacts the ground during takeoff or landing. This can pose serious risks, including structural damage to the aircraft and potential safety hazards for passengers and crew. Tailstrikes are often attributable to improper landing techniques, excessive pitch angles, or other factors that may affect the aircraft’s flight profile. In this case, the Airbus A321-271NX’s tailstrike during a go-around raises questions about the circumstances leading to the incident and the pilots’ decision-making process.

The Response from Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines, one of the largest carriers in the world, has not released an official statement regarding the incident at the time of writing. However, the airline is known for its commitment to safety and operational excellence. It is expected that the airline will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tailstrike. Such investigations typically involve a comprehensive review of flight data, cockpit voice recordings, and pilot interviews to determine the cause of the incident and any contributing factors.

Implications for Aviation Safety

The tailstrike incident involving the Turkish Airlines Airbus A321-271NX serves as a reminder of the importance of safety protocols in aviation. It underscores the need for continuous training for pilots and crew members to handle unexpected situations effectively. Furthermore, it highlights the significance of adhering to standard operating procedures during critical flight phases, such as landing and go-arounds.

The Role of Social Media in Aviation Reporting

The rapid dissemination of information on social media platforms has changed how aviation incidents are reported and discussed. The video of the tailstrike incident went viral shortly after it was posted, prompting immediate reactions from aviation enthusiasts, industry professionals, and the general public. Social media allows for real-time updates and discussions, creating a platform for individuals to share their insights and experiences.

Conclusion: Important Lessons Learned

As the investigation into the Turkish Airlines Airbus A321-271NX tailstrike continues, the aviation community will undoubtedly analyze the incident to glean important lessons. Ensuring the safety of passengers and crew is the top priority for airlines worldwide, and incidents like this serve as a crucial reminder of the complexities involved in flight operations. Continuous improvement in safety measures, pilot training, and operational protocols will remain essential in preventing similar occurrences in the future.

The aviation industry is constantly evolving, and as technology advances, so too does the ability to enhance safety and operational efficiency. The Turkish Airlines tailstrike incident at Václav Havel Airport will likely contribute to ongoing discussions about best practices and the importance of vigilance in aviation safety. As the situation develops, further updates from Turkish Airlines and aviation authorities will be awaited to provide clarity on the event and its implications for future flights.

For those interested in aviation safety, the Turkish Airlines incident serves as a case study on the importance of thorough training, adherence to protocols, and the role of technology in enhancing flight safety. As we anticipate more information regarding this incident, it remains crucial for the aviation community to engage in open dialogue and share knowledge to foster a culture of safety across the industry.

Video has appeared on social media showing the moment a Turkish Airlines Airbus A321-271NX suffered a tailstrike during go-around at Václav Havel Airport in Prague on Sunday. https://t.co/W3zB2BIXKz pic.twitter.com/LcgUL50OpU

— Breaking Aviation news & Videos (@aviationbrk) May 14, 2025

Video has appeared on social media showing the moment a Turkish Airlines Airbus A321-271NX suffered a tailstrike during go-around at Václav Havel Airport in Prague on Sunday.

Recently, a video surfaced on social media that captures a tense moment for passengers and crew aboard a Turkish Airlines Airbus A321-271NX. As the aircraft was performing a go-around maneuver at Václav Havel Airport in Prague, it suffered a tailstrike. This incident has raised eyebrows in the aviation community, sparking discussions about safety protocols and the importance of pilot training in handling challenging situations.

A Closer Look at the Incident

In the viral video, you can see the Airbus A321-271NX attempting to land when it suddenly veers up for a go-around. This maneuver is typically executed when a pilot feels that landing conditions aren’t optimal, whether due to weather, runway conditions, or air traffic issues. However, during this particular go-around, the tail of the aircraft appears to make contact with the runway, leading to what is known as a tailstrike.

Tailstrikes can be alarming to witness, and they raise legitimate questions about aircraft safety. Although modern aircraft are designed with robust structures to withstand such impacts, every incident is a reminder of the complexities involved in aviation operations. For those interested in aviation safety, this incident is a crucial learning moment.

Understanding Tailstrikes

So, what exactly is a tailstrike? A tailstrike occurs when the tail of the aircraft makes contact with the runway during takeoff or landing. This can happen for various reasons, including improper pitch attitude, excessive descent rate, or a go-around executed too late. While tailstrikes are not uncommon, they can lead to significant damage to the aircraft’s structure and systems, necessitating thorough inspections and sometimes extensive repairs.

For the Turkish Airlines Airbus A321-271NX involved in this incident, the pilots must have acted quickly, prioritizing safety by opting for a go-around. It’s essential to understand that go-arounds are a standard part of flight operations and are executed to ensure the safety of everyone on board. However, the execution of this maneuver can be tricky, especially for less experienced pilots.

The Role of Pilot Training and Safety Protocols

This incident underlines the critical importance of pilot training and adherence to safety protocols. Pilots undergo rigorous training to prepare for various scenarios, including go-arounds. They learn to assess different factors—such as weather, traffic conditions, and aircraft performance—before making split-second decisions. The training they receive is designed not only to prepare them for normal operations but also to ensure they can handle emergencies with poise and expertise.

Airlines like Turkish Airlines invest heavily in their training programs, focusing on both technical skills and crew resource management. This means that pilots are trained not just to fly the aircraft but to work as a team, communicating effectively with co-pilots and cabin crew to ensure everyone is on the same page during critical moments.

The Aftermath of the Incident

After the tailstrike incident, the aircraft likely underwent a thorough inspection to assess any damage. Airlines take such occurrences very seriously, often grounding the aircraft until it can be deemed safe to fly again. This process involves meticulous checks by maintenance crews to ensure that everything from the fuselage to the landing gear is in perfect working order.

Passengers aboard the flight may have experienced a range of emotions during and after the incident. From anxiety during the go-around to relief once the aircraft safely landed, it’s essential to acknowledge how such experiences can affect the psyche of travelers. Airlines typically offer support and communication to passengers following any incident, ensuring they feel safe and informed about their travel plans.

Social Media’s Impact on Aviation Awareness

Social media has dramatically changed the way we consume news, especially in the aviation sector. With platforms like Twitter, videos and updates about incidents can go viral within minutes. This not only raises awareness but also fosters discussions around aviation safety and protocols. As more people engage with these platforms, the narrative surrounding aviation incidents evolves, often leading to increased scrutiny and demand for transparency.

In this case, the video showing the tailstrike of the Turkish Airlines Airbus A321-271NX has sparked discussions about the safety measures in place at Václav Havel Airport and the airline’s operational protocols. Social media serves as a double-edged sword; while it brings attention to safety issues, it can also lead to misinformation if not properly contextualized.

The Importance of Transparency in Aviation

Following any aviation incident, transparency is vital. Passengers and the general public want to understand what happened, why it happened, and what steps are being taken to prevent a recurrence. Airlines and regulatory authorities must provide clear and accurate information to maintain trust and confidence in air travel. This includes detailed reports on incidents and the measures taken to ensure safety moving forward.

In the case of the Turkish Airlines Airbus A321-271NX, we can expect a thorough investigation to take place. This would typically involve reviewing cockpit voice recordings, analyzing flight data, and interviewing crew members. The insights gained from this investigation could lead to improved training protocols or updates to safety guidelines, ultimately benefitting the entire aviation industry.

What Can Passengers Do?

For travelers, it’s essential to stay informed about aviation safety. Understanding the complexities of flight operations can help demystify incidents like the tailstrike experienced by the Turkish Airlines Airbus A321-271NX. If you’re ever on a flight where you feel concerned about safety, don’t hesitate to communicate with the cabin crew. They’re trained to handle passengers’ concerns and ensure everyone feels comfortable.

Additionally, participating in discussions about aviation safety on social media can contribute to a broader understanding of the challenges and advancements in the industry. Engaging with reputable sources and staying updated on safety protocols can empower passengers to make informed decisions about their travel plans.

Final Thoughts on Aviation Safety

The incident involving the Turkish Airlines Airbus A321-271NX at Václav Havel Airport is a reminder of the intricacies of aviation and the importance of rigorous safety measures. As technology advances and training programs evolve, the aviation industry continues to prioritize the safety and well-being of passengers. While incidents like tailstrikes may occur, they serve as learning opportunities, ultimately leading to improved practices that benefit everyone in the long run.

As we follow this story and others like it, let’s keep the conversation going. Share your thoughts on aviation safety, personal experiences, or questions you might have. Together, we can enhance our understanding of this fascinating field and the measures in place to keep air travel safe and secure.