Vietnam Airlines Boeing 787-9 Suffers Tail Strike and Tire Damage During Takeoff

A Vietnam Airlines Boeing 787-9 suffered a tail strike and triggered low tire-pressure warnings shortly after takeoff from Munich Airport on August 15. The incident occurred during flight VN34, which was operating from Munich to Hanoi with 271 passengers and 16 crew members.

The aircraft, VN-A867, was built in 2016 at Boeing's Charleston plant and had been in service for over 10 years. After becoming airborne, the pilots remained near Munich for more than two hours before returning to the airport due to the known problems with the tires and tail strike.

Upon landing, all four main landing gear tires on the left side were damaged, forcing the aircraft to remain on the runway without power. The incident led to a temporary closure of Munich Airport's north runway, affecting air traffic.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) has confirmed the tail strike and tire damage, citing warnings triggered after takeoff indicating contact between the aircraft's tail and the runway. The German investigation authority is leading the probe under international rules, with the CAAV coordinating and providing assistance from Vietnam.