Dramatic footage has emerged showing the terrifying moment a Boeing 747 cargo plane's wing struck the runway during a hazardous landing attempt in Taiwan amid powerful typhoon conditions.
The shocking incident occurred as the aircraft, operated by an international cargo carrier, battled strong crosswinds and heavy rain while attempting to touch down at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport.
Heart-Stopping Moment Captured on Video
Video of the incident shows the massive aircraft tilting dangerously as it approaches the runway, with one wing visibly dipping toward the ground. In a heart-stopping moment, the wingtip makes contact with the tarmac, sending sparks flying as the pilots struggle to maintain control.
Remarkably, the crew managed to execute a go-around and safely abort the landing attempt. Aviation experts have praised the pilots' quick thinking and skill in preventing what could have been a catastrophic accident.
Typhoon Conditions Challenge Even Experienced Crews
The incident occurred during Typhoon Koinu, which brought sustained winds of up to 100 mph to parts of Taiwan. Such extreme weather conditions present significant challenges even for experienced flight crews and modern aircraft.
Aviation safety specialist Dr. Emily Chen commented: "This incident highlights the incredible stresses that typhoon conditions place on aircraft and flight crews. While modern planes are designed to handle considerable turbulence, crosswinds during landing remain one of the most dangerous aspects of flying in such weather."
Investigation Underway
Taiwanese aviation authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. Preliminary reports suggest the aircraft sustained minor damage to its right wingtip but was able to land safely on a subsequent attempt after conditions improved slightly.
The incident has reignited discussions about:
- Protocols for landing in extreme weather conditions
- Weight distribution in cargo aircraft
- Pilot training for typhoon landings
- Runway safety measures during storms
While such wing strikes are rare, they serve as a sobering reminder of the challenges faced by aviation professionals when operating in severe weather conditions.
