The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam confirmed it is in direct contact with Germany’s aircraft accident investigation agencies. They have asked their German counterparts to provide continuous updates on the incident and the overall progress of the inquiry.
Under Annex 13 of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the country where an incident takes place bears the primary responsibility for the investigation. Consequently, Germany will take the lead in determining the cause of the event involving the Boeing 787-9 aircraft.
Vietnam’s participation aligns with Decree 221/2026. This decree outlines the responsibilities of Vietnam’s aviation authority, including safety management, specialized inspections, and protocols for international coordination during aircraft incident investigations.
According to a report from Vietnam Airlines, the incident occurred when flight VN34, en route from Munich to Hanoi, took off at 1:57 p.m. local time.
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A still image from a live video circulating on social media showing the Vietnam Airlines plane touching down at Munich airport with smoke coming from its tail, Aug. 16, 2026. |
Shortly after departure, the aircraft’s automated systems triggered warnings indicating tire pressure issues and a potential tail strike on the runway.
Following standard safety protocols, the flight crew immediately alerted air traffic control and opted to return to Munich Airport for a thorough technical inspection.
The aircraft landed safely, and all 271 passengers and 16 crew members disembarked via mobile stairs before being transported back to the terminal.
The Boeing 787-9 has since been moved to a designated parking area for comprehensive inspection, assessment, and investigation.
Vietnam Airlines secured alternative travel arrangements for all affected passengers by the afternoon of Aug. 16, utilizing their own subsequent flights and those of partner carriers.