Vietnam Airlines flight to Hanoi returns to Munich after take-off

The airline later confirmed that the aircraft had developed a technical problem and that all passengers and crew were safe.

According to flight-tracking data from Flightradar24, VN34 was operated by a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner registered as VN-A867.

The aircraft departed Munich at 1:57 pm local time, or about 6:57 pm Vietnam time.

The Boeing 787-9 took off from runway 26L and became airborne relatively close to the end of the runway, with a large cloud of dust visible behind the aircraft.

Initial reports suggested that the aircraft might have struck equipment near the end of the runway.

After take-off, the aircraft did not continue its long-haul flight to Hanoi.

Instead, it remained at an altitude of around 9,000 feet and flew several circuits in the area before returning to Munich.

Such a maneuver can allow an aircraft to burn off fuel and reduce its weight before landing, while also giving the crew additional time to assess the aircraft's condition and prepare for a safe return.

According to media reports and live footage from the airport broadcast by YouTube channel Plm Aviation, VN34 flew at low altitude over the runway area before landing back at the airport.

Firefighters were also positioned as a precaution.

The aircraft ultimately landed safely and was moved to a parking stand.

A direct flight from Munich to Hanoi operated by Vietnam Airlines typically takes around 10-11 hours.

Flight data showed that VN-A867 had previously operated flight VN35 from Hanoi to Munich on Friday, following a series of domestic and international flights.

If the aircraft is required to remain in Munich for a detailed technical inspection, Vietnam Airlines may have to make adjustments to its subsequent flight schedule.

Wide-body aircraft are generally rotated across multiple international and domestic routes.

If an aircraft cannot return to its planned base, an airline may need to substitute another aircraft, adjust departure times or reorganize its fleet to cover subsequent services.

Vietnam Airlines operates direct services from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Munich and Frankfurt using Boeing 787 and Airbus A350 wide-body aircraft.

Munich remains a regular destination in the carrier's network between Vietnam and Germany.

Vietnam Airlines confirms technical problem

At 11:30 pm on Saturday, Vietnam Airlines issued a statement confirming that VN34 had returned to Munich shortly after take-off because of a technical issue.

The flight was operated by a Boeing 787-9.

The flight crew followed the required procedures and landed safely at Munich Airport.

All passengers and crew members were safe, and passengers were escorted to the terminal.

The airline said it was coordinating with authorities and relevant agencies to determine the specific cause of the incident.

It was also arranging assistance and alternative travel plans for affected passengers.

The carrier will provide further updates once the technical inspection is completed and a specific operating plan is determined.