On 13 August, while attempting to land in Taipei during Typhoon Podul, UPS flight 61 suffered an engine pod strike to the number four engine. The aircraft was making its third approach in gusty winds.
UPS flight 61 departed Hong Kong at 09:50 UTC (17:50 local time). The 747 approached Taipei for the first time at 11:20 UTC, conducting a go-around and an immediate second approach at 11:35 UTC. The second approach also resulted in a go-around. The flight was vectored to the northwest and then south for a third approach.
The active METAR at the time of the third approach indicated winds from 100 degrees at 23 knots, gusting to 36 knots.
RCTP 131200Z 10023G36KT 9999 FEW015 SCT180 31/22 Q1000 WS ALL RWY NOSIG RMK QFF 1000.6HPA A2955
The aircraft touched down at 12:09 UTC, striking the number four engine pod on the runway. The 747 was able to taxi to its parking stand without further incident.
Aircraft information
UPS flight 5X61 was operated by a 747-8F registered N613UP. The aircraft is powered by four General Electric GEnx-2B67 engines. It was delivered to UPS new in 2018.
Investigative updates
Taiwan’s Transportation Safety Board has opened an investigation into this occurrence. The TSB elaborates, “the aircraft sustained a No. 4 engine pod strike, which resulted in damage to the No. 4 engine, as well as multiple areas of the right wing and fuselage.”
5 Responses
Afortunadamente el aterrizaje fue bueno, a pesar de las dificultades inherentes al paro de un motor y la climatología adversa.
Excelente registro del aterrizaje del 747 pericia del piloto
Oof that’s unfortunate. Landing during a typhoon doesn’t sound easy
Should have diverted to Bangkok and waited out the storm.
Runway number? Not familiar with that airport