UPDATE: A Sun Country Airlines Boeing 737-800 was damaged after a tail strike during takeoff from Milwaukee, forcing an urgent diversion to Chicago O’Hare International Airport. The incident occurred on December 29, 2025, as Flight SY201 was en route to Orlando International Airport when its tail came into contact with the runway just after departing Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) at 09:22 AM local time.
Tracking data reveals that the aircraft climbed to a cruising altitude of FL270 before the crew made the critical decision to land safely at Chicago O’Hare just over 40 minutes later, at 10:04 AM. The plane spent approximately three hours on the ground in Chicago for inspections and repairs before continuing its journey to Orlando.
According to a statement from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), “AIRCRAFT INCURRED A TAIL STRIKE ON DEPARTURE AND POST FLIGHT INSPECTION REVEALED DAMAGE TO SKID SHOE, MILWAUKEE, WI.” Fortunately, the aircraft was equipped with a tail skid, which is designed to absorb impact and protect the tail structure during such incidents. This essential feature allowed the aircraft to return to service the same day, showcasing the effectiveness of such safety equipment.
The incident involved a 12-year-old Boeing 737-800 with the registration number N851SY, which had previously operated under Thomson Airways before joining the Sun Country fleet in June 2023. This aircraft, configured with a seating capacity of 189 passengers, is part of Sun Country’s all-Boeing 737 fleet, which consists of 68 aircraft including 65 737-800s.
While tail strikes typically do not pose an immediate risk to flight safety, they can lead to severe consequences if not properly repaired. There have been historical cases where improper maintenance following a tail strike resulted in catastrophic failures long after the initial incident. It is crucial for airlines and their maintenance teams to adhere strictly to manufacturer guidelines to ensure safety.
Passengers and crew experienced no injuries in this incident, but the event serves as a reminder of the inherent risks involved in air travel. As Sun Country Airlines continues its operations, all eyes will be on the maintenance protocols in place to ensure the safety of future flights.
What to Watch For: As the aviation community analyzes this incident, expect updates on any further investigations launched by the FAA and how Sun Country Airlines responds to this event. With ongoing scrutiny on airline safety practices, this incident may lead to broader discussions on tail strike protocols and aircraft maintenance standards.
Stay tuned for more breaking developments in aviation safety and travel news.
