Vietnam Airlines Boeing 787 Suffers Tailstrike at Munich After Late Takeoff

A Vietnam Airlines Boeing 787-9 rotated dangerously late during takeoff from Munich on August 15, striking its tail on the runway and overrunning the tarmac before becoming airborne. The crew reported tire pressure issues and returned to Munich after dumping fuel for two hours. All 263 passengers and crew landed safely, but the aircraft sustained substantial damage to its fuselage, landing gear, and composite skin. The incident marks another serious operational incident for Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner fleet.

What happened at Munich on August 15

Vietnam Airlines Flight VN34, operating Boeing 787-9 registration VN-A867, departed Munich’s Runway 26L bound for Hanoi. The aircraft rotated unusually late, causing the tail to strike the ground and kick up plumes of dust and debris. According to Aviation Herald, the plane became airborne roughly 120 meters past the runway end, already in grass and near approach lights. The crew climbed to 10,000 feet before reporting tire pressure warning lights.

The return to Munich and damage assessment

After identifying the tire issue, the crew declared an emergency and returned to Munich. The aircraft spent 90 minutes dumping fuel before attempting two low approaches to Runway 26R. The 787 landed with its left main landing gear trailing smoke and became disabled on the runway. Preliminary reports indicate the tail strike module was destroyed, with a clear puncture through the lower fuselage, heavy scrape marks along the aft fuselage, and shredded tires. Runway 26R was closed following the incident.

Boeing stock reaction and investor implications

Boeing shares rose 0.58% to $231.67 on Tuesday, August 13, with eight analysts maintaining Buy ratings and consensus at 4.0. Meyka grades the stock B+ with a 12-month forecast of $220.93, suggesting limited upside from current levels. The incident adds pressure to Boeing’s already strained reputation following prior 737 MAX crashes and recent quality control issues across its commercial fleet.

Investigation underway, cause unclear

German aviation authorities have launched a formal investigation into the tailstrike and runway overrun. The exact cause remains undetermined. Preliminary evidence suggests a possible late rotation calculation error or weight miscalculation affecting takeoff performance, though no official determination has been made. All 263 passengers and crew evacuated safely with no injuries reported.

Final Thoughts

The Munich incident underscores ongoing operational and manufacturing challenges for Boeing and its customers. While no lives were lost, the substantial aircraft damage and runway closure highlight risks in the 787 fleet’s operational procedures.

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