Vietnam Airlines Boeing Sustains Substantial Damage After Late Takeoff at Munich

A Vietnam Airlines Boeing 787-9 suffered substantial structural damage after taking off late from Munich Airport on August 15, 2026. The aircraft, operating as flight VN34 to Hanoi, accelerated down a 4,000-meter runway before lifting off, with its nose remaining on the ground longer than other widebodies departing that night.

Flight tracking data and amateur video indicate that the plane did not become airborne until after passing the paved runway end, with observers describing plumes of dirt or debris as it crossed the threshold lighting and safety area. The crew reported an issue shortly after departure, stopping their climb and entering a holding pattern near Munich.

The aircraft remained in the vicinity for over an hour at reduced speed and altitude, consistent with fuel jettison procedures used to lower landing weight before an unscheduled return. Images shared after the eventual landing show severe scraping and deformation to the underside of the rear fuselage, consistent with a heavy tailstrike.