Flight Returns to Dulles After Engine Failure During Takeoff, FAA Reports

United Airlines Flight 803 makes emergency landing without injuries

Washington, Dulles International Airport – United Airlines Flight 803, bound for Tokyo, experienced a sudden engine failure shortly after initiating take‑off on Saturday. The crew promptly declared an emergency and returned to Dulles, touching down at approximately 1:20 p.m.

The FAA confirmed that all 165 passengers and crew members were unharmed and that the aircraft was evacuated in an orderly manner. Preliminary findings suggest the failure involved the left‑hand turbofan, though the exact cause is still under investigation.

Airport officials praised the crew’s professionalism, noting that the swift decision to abort the departure prevented a potentially dangerous situation at altitude. United Airlines has arranged for a replacement aircraft to continue the Tokyo route later in the day.

Further updates will be provided as the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the FAA continue their joint investigation into the incident.