Abstract: An on-board tail jack assembly (20) for stabilizing the tail region (14) of an aircraft (10) during a loading or unloading procedure is comprised of a jack unit (22) disposed within the tail region of the craft in force communication with a frame member thereof for load transfer and distribution upon stabilizing actuation of the jack, which jack includes a reciprocable jack ram member (36) having a distal end terminating in a coupling member (40); and a strut (24) comprising a shaft (80) having a proximal end terminating in a coupling member (114) with a complementary geometric configuration as respects that of the jack unit for mating engagement therewith, which strut further includes a first shaft member (102) and a second shaft member (104) disposed in biased, adjustably displaceable engagement therewith.