Vietnam Airlines Flight Makes Emergency Return After Suspected Tailstrike

A Vietnam Airlines Boeing 787 flight from Munich to Hanoi made an emergency return to Munich just minutes after takeoff on August 15, 2026. The aircraft, identified as VN34, experienced a tailstrike during departure, which can cause structural damage and affect sensors, systems, or pressurization components.

According to eyewitness accounts, the jet's tail section made contact with the runway surface, resulting in scuffing and deformation along the underside of the 787's rear fuselage. The crew then entered a holding pattern near Munich, where they prepared for an emergency landing.

The flight ultimately abandoned its journey to Hanoi and returned to Munich, where it made a firm but stable touchdown. Passengers described their experience as unusually long takeoff roll and a sensation of the aircraft remaining close to the runway for longer than expected.