Vietnam Airlines Boeing 787 Nearly Ran Out of Runway After Brakes Activated During Takeoff

MUNICH, Sept. 30, 2026 — A Vietnam Airlines Boeing 787-9 nearly ran out of runway during takeoff from Munich Airport on August 15 after investigators found that the aircraft’s brakes were activated during the takeoff roll.

The aircraft, operating Vietnam Airlines flight VN34 from Munich to Hanoi, was carrying 271 passengers and 16 crew members. No one was injured, but the aircraft sustained substantial damage after lifting off beyond the end of the runway and striking approach-lighting equipment.

Brakes Activated During Takeoff

According to a preliminary report from Germany’s Federal Bureau of Aircraft Accident Investigation (BFU), flight-recorder data showed movement of both brake pedals at the left-hand pilot seat only seconds after takeoff mode was activated.

Additional braking inputs were recorded later during the takeoff roll. The aircraft’s brake system recorded commands of approximately 27% on the left side and 17% on the right.

The braking appears to have significantly affected the aircraft’s acceleration. Its speed remained around 168 knots for approximately 18 seconds, while the calculated rotation speed for the takeoff was 175 knots.

The crew ultimately began rotation at approximately 163 knots, below the calculated rotation speed. The Boeing 787 then left the paved runway and became airborne from the grass beyond the runway end.

Aircraft Struck Approach Lighting

After leaving the runway, the aircraft’s tail section and main landing gear struck parts of Munich Airport’s approach-lighting system.

The aircraft continued climbing and the crew subsequently declared an emergency and returned to Munich. Before landing, the crew dumped approximately 62 tonnes of fuel to reduce the aircraft’s weight.

The aircraft eventually landed safely, although four tires on the left main landing gear were found damaged. The rear fuselage and landing gear also sustained damage.

Cause of Brake Inputs Still Unknown

The BFU has not determined why the brakes were activated.

Investigators are examining whether the recorded brake inputs resulted from pilot control inputs, a technical malfunction, or a combination of factors. Brake System Control Units and Electric Brake Actuator Controllers have been secured for further examination.

The investigation is complicated by the absence of usable cockpit voice recordings covering the takeoff, as the recording was overwritten after the aircraft returned to Munich.

The BFU has classified the incident as an accident because of the substantial damage to the aircraft. However, the preliminary findings do not represent a final determination of the cause.

The investigation remains ongoing, with investigators continuing to examine the aircraft’s braking system, flight-recorder data and other operational and technical factors.