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Old 18th Mar 2019, 00:46
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capngrog
 
Join Date: Nov 2015
Location: Paisley, Florida USA
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I saw that years ago at MIA Cargo City with a DC-8-71 operated by one of the package delivery outfits. It looked ridiculous, but apparently little harm was done. The loadmaster, or whomever was responsible for the loading, had neglected to place the tail strut/stand in position. Loading proceeded as usual with the first loaded (pallets, ULDs etc.) going to the rear. Without the tail strut/stand in place, the DC-8 gently (so I was told) settled onto its tail skid. I thought that it would be an involved procedure to restore the DC-8 to its three-point stance, but I was surprised at how easily it was done. The load was slowly shifted forward, and the aircraft rather gently (I watched this) settled onto its nose gear. After a few compression cycles of the nose strut all was declared good. I noticed that the tail strut/stand was immediately installed. I was surprised to hear that there was no damage to the airplane itself; however, I'm sure that some reputations/egos were somewhat damaged.
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