Munich: A Vietnam Airlines Boeing 787 bound for Hanoi returned to Munich on Sunday after warnings indicated possible contact between the aircraft’s tail and the runway and low tire pressure shortly after takeoff, Vietnam’s aviation authority said. The aircraft circled for more than two hours to burn fuel before returning to Munich.
According to TRTworld.com, flight-tracking website Flightradar24 reported that the aircraft had overrun the runway during takeoff. “After takeoff, warnings were triggered indicating contact between the aircraft’s tail and the runway and low tire pressure,” the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) said in a statement issued late Sunday. Vietnam Airlines initially said the flight had returned because of a “technical issue”. All 271 passengers and 16 crew members were safe, the carrier said.
Munich Airport stated that the aircraft was unable to taxi from the north runway under its own power after landing and remained stranded, affecting airport operations. The CAAV mentioned c
oordination with German authorities to seek information on the incident and the ongoing investigation. German authorities are leading the investigation under international aviation rules, with Vietnam’s Council for the Investigation of Serious Incidents and Aircraft Accidents assisting, the CAAV said.
Vietnam Airlines arranged alternative travel for affected passengers on its own flights and those operated by other airlines. The airline also provided accommodation, meals, and ground transportation for passengers awaiting replacement flights, as reported by Vietnamese state media.