A DHL Air cargo aircraft suffered a tail strike at London Heathrow Airport, prompting safety inspections and raising concerns over potential damage and service disruption, report+ed London's Guessing Headlights.

The incident involved a DHL Airbus A300 freighter, a model increasingly retired by operators. Tail strikes typically occur when the aircraft's rear fuselage contacts the runway during takeoff or landing due to incorrect pitch angle.

Aviation authorities require detailed inspections after such incidents. Engineers must assess the rear pressure bulkhead and fuselage for cracks or deformation that could compromise airworthiness.

Depending on inspection results, repairs may be minor or extensive. If damage is minimal, the aircraft could return to service within days. However, significant structural issues could ground the plane for weeks or render repairs uneconomical due to the aircraft's age.

DHL is expected to maintain service levels despite the grounding. The company operates a large fleet and can reroute cargo through alternative aircraft to avoid delays.

While tail strikes are rare, they highlight the precision required in aviation. The A300 remains grounded pending assessment, but safety protocols ensure thorough checks before any return to service.