Flight Safety Information - February 09, 2026 No. 028 In This Issue : Incident: Tway B738 at Taipei on Feb 8th 2026, lost wheel on landing : Incident: AirAsia X A333 near Brisbane on Feb 8th 2026, loss of cabin pressure : Incident: Egypt A20N at Istanbul on Feb 6th 2026, reported smoke in the cockpit : Incident: Hainan B789 near Brussels on Feb 6th 2026, cracked windshield : Incident: Martin B744 near Amsterdam on Feb 4th 2026, hydraulic leak : Cessna 560XL Citation XLS+ - Runway Overrun (Kentucky) : Embraer EMB-110P1 Bandeirante - Fatal Accident (Haiti) : 100-Ton Weight Miscalculation By Pilots Caused LATAM Boeing 777 Accident In Milan : Hong Kong Airlines plane issues mayday call amid runway closure in Taipei : Delta Air Lines orders 31 Airbus widebody aircraft to boost international and premium growth : Calendar of Events Incident: Tway B738 at Taipei on Feb 8th 2026, lost wheel on landing A Tway Air Boeing 737-800, registration HL8564 performing flight TW-687 from Jeju (South Korea) to Taipei (Taiwan), landed on Taipei's runway 06L when the right outboard wheel separated from the aircraft during the landing roll. The aircraft rolled out without further incident and taxied to the apron. The runway was closed for a runway inspection and removal of the debris, several parts were removed. The aircraft is still on the ground in Taipei about 14 hours after landing. https://avherald.com/h?article=5348532e&opt=0 Incident: AirAsia X A333 near Brisbane on Feb 8th 2026, loss of cabin pressure An AirAsia X Airbus A330-300, registration 9M-XBG performing flight D7-221 from Sydney,NS (Australia) to Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), was enroute at FL340 about 560nm westnorthwest of Brisbane,QL (Australia) when the crew initiated an emergency descent due to the loss of cabin pressure. The aircraft subsequently turned around to divert to Brisbane for a safe landing on runway 07R about 2 hours after leaving FL340. The aircraft is still on the ground in Brisbane about 4 hours after landing. https://avherald.com/h?article=53483087&opt=0 Incident: Egypt A20N at Istanbul on Feb 6th 2026, reported smoke in the cockpit An Egypt Air Airbus A320-200N, registration SU-GFJ performing flight MS-738 from Istanbul (Turkey) to Cairo (Egypt), was climbing out of Istanbul's runway 18 when the crew stopped the climb at 5000 feet declaring emergency reporting smoke in the cockpit. The aircraft returned to Istanbul for a safe landing on runway 17L about 14 minutes after departure. An inspection revealed no issues, the aircraft departed again after about 4:15 hours on the ground and reached Cairo with a delay of about 5 hours. https://avherald.com/h?article=53482c94&opt=0 Incident: Hainan B789 near Brussels on Feb 6th 2026, cracked windshield A Hainan Airlines Boeing 787-9, registration B-1546 performing flight HU-492 from Brussels (Belgium) to Beijing (China), was climbing through FL370 out of Brussels when the captain's windshield cracked prompting the crew to return to Brussels for a safe landing on runway 25L about 100 minutes after departure. The aircraft is still on the ground in Brussels about 29 hours after landing back. https://avherald.com/h?article=53473958&opt=0 Incident: Martin B744 near Amsterdam on Feb 4th 2026, hydraulic leak A Martinair Holland Boeing 747-400 freighter, registration PH-MPS performing flight MP-8931 from Amsterdam (Netherlands) to Cairo (Egypt), was enroute at FL350 almost over Frankfurt/Main (Germany) when the crew decided to return to Amsterdam due to a hydraulic problem. On approach to Amsterdam the crew requested extra time to set flaps and gear and free speed for approach and landing, they may have a hydraulic leak, they were losing pressure in one of their hydraulic systems. The aircraft landed safely on runway 18C and vacated the runway. After vacating the runway the crew advised they had no lost all pressure, the system became empty after taxiing. ATC instructed the crew to hold position and advised there had been a leak under their right main landing gear. The aircraft returned to service about 28.5 hours after landing back. https://avherald.com/h?article=534737f7&opt=0 Cessna 560XL Citation XLS+ - Runway Overrun (Kentucky) Date: Friday 6 February 2026 Time: c. 08:15 LT Type: Cessna 560XL Citation XLS+ Owner/operator: Bandyco LLC Registration: N476JC MSN: 560-6095 Year of manufacture: 2011 Fatalities: Fatalities: 0 / Occupants: 4 Other fatalities: 0 Aircraft damage: Minor Category: Accident Location: Stuart Powell Field (KDVK), Danville, KY - United States of America Phase: Take off Nature: Executive Departure airport: Danville-Stuart Powell Field, KY (KDVK) Destination airport: Bowling Green-Warren County Airport, KY (BWG/KBWG) Confidence Rating: Information is only available from news, social media or unofficial sources Narrative: A Cessna 560XL Citation XLS+, N476JC, experienced a 'mechnical issue' during takeoff from runway 31 at Stuart Powell Field (KDVK), Danville, Kentucky. The pilot aborted the takeoff and the aircraft veered to the left, overran the runway, and cam to rest in the graas with the landing gear and flaps retracted. The four occupants were not injured and the aircraft received minor damage. https://www.aviation-safety.net/wikibase/566465 Embraer EMB-110P1 Bandeirante - Fatal Accident (Haiti) Date: Thursday 5 February 2026 Time: c. 14:40 Type: Embraer EMB-110P1 Bandeirante Owner/operator: Agape Flights Inc Registration: N316AF MSN: 110271 Year of manufacture: 1980 Fatalities: Fatalities: 2 / Occupants: 2 Other fatalities: 0 Aircraft damage: Destroyed Category: Accident Location: Zicaque area, S of Troupeau, SE of Jeremie, Grand’Anse - Haiti Phase: En route Nature: Cargo Departure airport: Jeremie Airport (JEE/MTJE) Destination airport: Les Cayes Airport (CYA/MTCA) Confidence Rating: Information is only available from news, social media or unofficial sources Narrative: An Embraer EMB-110P1 Bandeirante crashed in wooded mountainous terrain in the Zicaque area, south of Troupeau, southeast of Jeremie, Grand’Anse. The wreckage of the aircraft has been found on February 6. Both pilots perished and the aircraft was destroyed. https://www.aviation-safety.net/wikibase/566450 100-Ton Weight Miscalculation By Pilots Caused LATAM Boeing 777 Accident In Milan Italian aviation authorities have concluded that a LATAM Airlines Boeing 777-300ER sustained a tail strike during departure from Milan Malpensa in July 2024 after a major take-off weight error. The aircraft was operating a scheduled flight to São Paulo when incorrect performance calculations led to an early rotation. Although the aircraft returned and landed without injuries, investigators later classified the event as an accident due to the extent of the damage. The findings point to a combination of human error and procedural failures rather than a technical malfunction. The investigation, carried out by Italy’s National Agency for the Safety of Flight (ANSV), provides a detailed reconstruction of how the miscalculation occurred and why it went undetected. The case has drawn attention within the aviation industry because it demonstrates how performance-planning mistakes can propagate through automated systems. Safety specialists say the incident underscores the importance of robust cross-checking and crew situational awareness. Lessons from the event are expected to inform future operational guidance and training. Severe Weight Miscalculation Identified As Root Cause Of Tail Strike As reported by the Aviation Herald, according to the final report, the LATAM Boeing 777 departed Milan Malpensa Airport on July 9, 2024, with a gross take-off weight underestimated by roughly 22,000 lbs (100,000 kg). The captain mistakenly deducted the expected taxi fuel when calculating the aircraft’s weight, resulting in a figure far below the actual value. That incorrect weight was then entered into the take-off performance tools used by both pilots. As a result, the aircraft’s calculated thrust settings and rotation speeds were invalid. Because the same erroneous data was used in both electronic flight bags, the standard cross-check process failed to expose the discrepancy. The aircraft’s flight-management system was unable to generate valid V-speeds and displayed a warning, but the crew did not fully appreciate its significance. The take-off was continued using speeds that were substantially lower than required, leading to the aircraft’s tail contacting the runway during rotation. “The result, 228.8 tonnes instead of the correct 328.4 tonnes, was verbally announced and subsequently used by both pilots.” The Boeing 777-300ER was operating a long-haul flight to São Paulo with a high payload and fuel load, a configuration that leaves little margin for error in take-off performance planning. Because the aircraft’s take-off weight was underestimated by roughly 220,000 lbs (100,000 kg), the calculated V-speeds, including rotation speed, were significantly too low. Investigators found that the computed Vr was more than 30 knots below what was required for the aircraft’s actual mass, increasing the pitch rate during rotation and making a tail strike far more likely on departure from Milan’s Runway 35L. After lift-off, the crew noticed abnormal indications consistent with an unusual take-off profile and possible aircraft damage. As a precaution, they halted the climb, coordinated with air traffic control, and elected to return to Milan Malpensa. To ensure a safe landing within structural limits, the aircraft jettisoned approximately 159,000lbs (72,000 kg) of fuel before conducting an uneventful approach and landing. While no injuries were reported among the passengers or crew, post-flight inspections revealed damage to the rear fuselage, tail skid assembly, drain mast, and surrounding structural elements. The investigation also identified weaknesses in cockpit coordination and procedural compliance that allowed the error to go undetected. Critical weight figures were exchanged verbally rather than cross-checked against the official load sheet or the flight management system. Additionally, when the aircraft displayed a “V-speeds unavailable” message before departure, the crew did not fully assess its implications or consult applicable procedures. Investigators concluded that these lapses collectively undermined multiple safety barriers that should have prevented the take-off from continuing with incorrect performance data. Safer Flights? Boeing Files Patent For Aircraft Tail Strike Prevention System How might the system help prevent operational disruption following a suspected tail strike? The aircraft, registered as PT-MUG, remained grounded for an extended period following the incident while repairs and inspections were completed. The damage was significant enough to require manufacturer involvement and regulatory oversight before the jet could be cleared to fly again. LATAM eventually returned the aircraft to service seven months later in February 2025. Tail-strike events linked to performance-planning errors are relatively rare but well-documented in aviation safety records. Similar incidents have prompted renewed discussion about the benefits of onboard take-off performance monitoring systems, which can independently assess acceleration and rotation parameters in real time. Safety analysts note that while modern aircraft are highly automated, they remain dependent on accurate human inputs. The Milan incident serves as a reminder that procedural discipline and effective cross-checking remain essential defenses, even on technologically advanced flight decks. https://simpleflying.com/100-ton-weight-miscalculation-pilots-latam-777-accident-milan/ Hong Kong Airlines plane issues mayday call amid runway closure in Taipei Debris on runway from an earlier incident forced three aircraft to circle above Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport while issuing fuel concerns Debris caused by an earlier incident involving a T’way Airlines flight from South Korea forced the runway to be temporarily closed. A Hong Kong Airlines flight was among three aircraft forced to circle above Taoyuan airport in Taiwan and issue mayday distress calls over fuel concerns after a runway closure disrupted arrivals. In reply to the South China Morning Post on Monday, the airline said the crew of flight HX260 from Hong Kong to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport had requested a priority landing on safety grounds. According to audio clips circulating online, the cabin crew made three mayday calls at around 7pm on Sunday, with a pilot heard in the recordings telling air traffic control the aircraft had a fuel emergency. The aircraft eventually landed at 7.15pm, nearly an hour behind its scheduled arrival time of 6.20pm. Two other flights encountered similar situations. Shortly before HX260’s distress call, EVA Air flight BR392 declared mayday at 6.52pm, followed by flight BR007 at 6.57pm, both citing fuel concerns while circling above the airport. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Airlines aircraft declared a fuel emergency, issuing a “mayday, mayday, mayday” call to air traffic control. A mayday call is an international distress signal used by pilots to declare an emergency posing serious and imminent danger, such as engine failure, fire or loss of control, that requires immediate assistance. At the time, the runway was closed following an earlier incident involving T’way Airlines flight TW687 from Jeju, South Korea. The Boeing 737-800 suffered a tyre detachment upon landing at 3.52pm, scattering debris across the north runway. No injuries were reported, but the closure affected at least 14 flights during peak hours. The runway reopened at 5.35pm. A Hong Kong Airlines spokeswoman said its aircraft was instructed to enter a holding pattern due to the runway incident. “As the holding time extended, our flight crew, in strict compliance with aviation safety procedures and based on professional assessment of the available fuel, proactively notified local air traffic control and requested priority landing clearance,” she said. The airline said the aircraft landed safely with fuel reserves within safety limits and no passengers or crew were injured. “The company fully understands and supports the professional judgment exercised by the flight crew under the circumstances and extends its appreciation to all passengers for their understanding and cooperation during the delay,” the spokeswoman said. The airline also pledged to cooperate with authorities in the follow-up investigation. https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3342961/hong-kong-airlines-plane-issues-mayday-call-amid-runway-closure-taipei Delta Air Lines orders 31 Airbus widebody aircraft to boost international and premium growth Delta Air Lines has placed a firm order for 31 next-generation Airbus widebody aircraft, combining new purchases with existing options, in a move to modernize its fleet and expand international operations. The order, announced on January 28, 2026, includes 16 A330-900s and 15 A350-900s, along with 10 exercised options and 20 additional future options. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2029, News Ghana reported. Delta CEO Ed Bastian said the aircraft will strengthen the airline’s international network and premium offerings. “These widebody aircraft will support long-term growth and cost efficiency while expanding our reach in long-haul markets,” he said, emphasizing the company’s ongoing partnership with Airbus. With the new order, Delta’s A330-900 fleet will grow to 55 aircraft, while the A350 fleet will reach 79, including 20 A350-1000s expected in early 2027. The widebodies are intended to add premium capacity on medium- and long-haul routes while improving fuel efficiency and operating margins, aligning with Delta’s long-term fleet renewal strategy. Robin Hayes, CEO of Airbus North America, welcomed the continued partnership, noting that the A330neo and A350 families offer the performance and flexibility needed to expand Delta’s global connectivity. The A350’s long-range capabilities will support Delta’s growth in markets across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and the South Pacific, including new services to Taipei, Melbourne, Hong Kong, and Riyadh. Both aircraft families are certified to operate on up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blends, with Airbus targeting full SAF compatibility by 2030. Airbus says the A330neo and A350 deliver roughly 25% better fuel efficiency and lower CO₂ emissions than previous-generation widebodies. The A330-900 will be powered by the Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engine, which has flown over four million hours, including one million with Delta. The A350-900 will use the Trent XWB-84 EP engine, providing additional fuel and range benefits. Delta has signed long-term maintenance agreements with Rolls-Royce under its TotalCare program. Rob Watson, President of Civil Aerospace at Rolls-Royce, said the new order reinforces their commitment to reliability and customer success, noting Delta as the company’s largest partner in the Americas. Delta’s new widebody aircraft will feature expanded premium cabins, including Delta One Suites, Delta Premium Select, and Delta Comfort+, alongside Main Cabin seating. Passengers will have access to seatback entertainment, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, and enhanced dining options. The airline generated $5.69 billion in premium cabin revenue in Q4 2025, surpassing $5.62 billion from economy cabins for the first time in its history. The order falls within Delta’s existing capital expenditure and capacity plans. With this announcement, Delta has 232 narrowbody and 85 widebody aircraft on order, reinforcing its strategy to expand its global network and enhance the passenger experience. https://bioenergytimes.com/delta-air-lines-orders-31-airbus-widebody-aircraft-to-boost-international-and-premium-growth/ CALENDAR OF EVENTS . VERTICON 2026 - Atlanta March 9-12 . CANSO Global Safety Conference 2026 - 29 March – 1 April 2026 (Jeddah, Saudi Arabia) . 60th Annual SMU Air Law Symposium - March 31 - April 1, 2026 (Irving, TX) . 2026 ACSF Safety Symposium; April 7-9, 2026; ERAU Daytona Beach, FL . 2026 NBAA Maintenance Conference; May 5-7, 2026; New Orleans, LA . World Aviation Training Summit - 5-7 May 2026 - Orlando . BASS 2026 - 71st Business Aviation Safety Summit - May 5-6, 2026 | Provo, Utah . The African Aviation Safety & Operations Summit - May 19-20 | Johannesburg, South Africa . Safeskies Australia - Australia’s renowned Aviation Safety Conference - Canberra Australia 20 and 21 May 2026 . IATA World Maintenance & Engineering Symposium (23-25 June, Madrid, Spain) . ISASI - 2026 (September/October 2026) - Dubai, UAE . 2026 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) Oct. 20-22, 2026 | Las Vegas, NV Curt Lewis