Vietnam Airlines Boeing 787-9 Suffers Tail Strike and Tire Damage After Munich Departure

A Vietnam Airlines Boeing 787-9 suffered a tail strike and triggered low tire-pressure warnings shortly after its departure from Munich Airport on August 15. The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) confirmed that the aircraft, VN-A867, had made contact with the runway during takeoff, causing damage to its tires.

After taking off from Runway 26L, which is over 4,000 meters long, the 787 can be seen accelerating for an unusually long time before becoming airborne. The footage shows a large cloud of dust being thrown up as the aircraft leaves the paved runway area during the final stage of its takeoff roll.

The pilots remained near Munich for more than two hours before returning to the airport, allowing the aircraft to reduce its weight before attempting to land with the known problems. All tires on its left main landing gear were damaged, forcing the aircraft to remain on the runway after stopping.

The investigation is being led by the German investigation authority under international rules because the incident occurred in Germany. The CAAV said it is coordinating with German investigators, with Vietnam's aircraft accident investigation body expected to assist.