Saudia Cargo B 747-400 under assessment after runway tail-strike

February 3, 2020: Saudia Cargo Boeing 747-400 Freighter’s tail split opened from a tail-strike at the runway during its takeoff run out of Dammam King Fahd Airport, on Saturday.

Noticing the tail strike, the pilots leveled the aircraft off at 7,000 feet and assessed the situation, further commencing a climb upto 18,000 feet. The aircraft was diverted to Jeddah, Saudi and made a successful landing after around two hours and fifty minutes from the departure time.

An investigation will likely be launched as to why the aircraft struck its tail during its rotation. Until then, the aircraft may remain on the ground for the assessment of the damage and appropriate repairs.