Investigation Summary
During the takeoff roll on Runway 35L, the aircraft rotated prematurely or excessively, causing the rear fuselage to impact the runway surface. Preliminary data suggests the takeoff speeds (V-speeds) entered into the Flight Management Computer (FMC) may have been calculated based on incorrect aircraft weight or performance parameters. The aircraft sustained significant structural damage to the lower rear fuselage and the tail skid assembly. Despite the impact, the aircraft climbed out, and the crew performed a fuel jettison over the Ticino park area to reach a safe landing weight before returning to Malpensa approximately 70 minutes later.
Final Conclusions
The investigation by the ANSV is ongoing, focusing on the calculation of takeoff performance data and the flight crew's rotation technique. Initial findings point toward a 'performance data error' where the speeds used were significantly lower than required for the actual weight of the aircraft.
Video Analysis
LATAM 777 Tailstrike at Milan Malpensa — CCTV and bystander footage showing the moment the LATAM Boeing 777-300ER strikes its tail on the runway during departure.
Watch on YouTube ↗If playback is blocked, the owner has disabled embedding — use the link above.
Systems & Failure Modes
FMC (Flight Management Computer)
The system where pilots input takeoff speeds (V1, Vr, V2) based on aircraft weight.
Tail Skid Assembly
A protective device designed to absorb impact during over-rotation, which was heavily damaged.
Fuel Jettison System
Used to dump fuel to reach Maximum Landing Weight (MLW) for an immediate return.
Interesting Facts
- 01The tail contact lasted for approximately 9 seconds and covered over 600 meters of runway.
- 02The aircraft was carrying 383 passengers and 15 crew members; no injuries were reported.
- 03Runway 35L at Malpensa was temporarily closed for inspection and debris removal.
- 04The aircraft involved, PT-MUG, was approximately 12 years old at the time of the incident.
- 05The tail skid and lower fuselage skin suffered extensive abrasion and structural deformation.
Safety Actions & Advisories
Internal Safety Bulletin
LATAM issued a reminder to flight crews regarding the cross-verification of takeoff performance data and weight calculations.
Maintenance Inspection
The aircraft was grounded for several months for major structural repairs to the pressurized hull.