Vietnam Airlines Boeing 787-9 returns to Munich after tail strike and fuel dump
A Vietnam Airlines Boeing 787-9 hit the runway with its tail during takeoff from Munich, dumped fuel while circling, and landed safely back at the airport.
A Vietnam Airlines Boeing 787-9 on a Munich to Hanoi service overran the runway during takeoff when its tail struck the surface, creating a visible dust cloud. After the impact, the aircraft climbed to roughly 9,000 feet and spent around two hours dumping fuel before circling back to Munich International Airport. The crew executed a safe landing, and the airline confirmed that all passengers and cabin crew were unharmed.
Officials described the event as a technical issue, and the airline is coordinating an inspection with relevant authorities. The incident forced the north runway to be closed, requiring other flights to use the south runway. Images posted online showed damage to the tail section, punctured tires, and a tear in the lower fuselage, though the exact cause remains under investigation.
Why it matters
The incident disrupted Munich Airport operations and raises safety concerns for a major international carrier.
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