Originally Posted by
mmrassi
Failing to extend or retract impose several performance and speed limitations according to MEL but the first step which is identifying the tailskid problem remains unclear to me.
The tailskid needs inspection if it has been activated, which in turn requires engineers to assess functional operability.
In pilot terms:
- on walkaround you notice tailskid has ben activated
- You notify engineers who will assess if tailskid has been activated or not
- If engineers find it has been activated they may determine based on this that:
- Tailskid is allowed to continue (within remaining limits) and be continued to be used without replacing the honeycomb internal structure, thus making good damage and/or accurately recording existing visual skid shoe damage so any subsequent tailskid activation can be noticed by crew;
- tailskid needs replacing the honeycomb structure inside and a functional test is then required;
The latter requires MEL relief for despatch with penalties attached