A United Airlines flight bound for Tokyo experienced an engine failure shortly after taking off from Dulles International Airport in Virginia on Saturday at noon, forcing the aircraft to make an emergency return to the airport, US authorities reported.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) It was detailed that it was Flight 803, operated by a Boeing 777-200, which experienced a loss of power in one of its engines during takeoff.

Fire near the runway

During the incident, part of the cowling of the left engine detached and caused a fire in brush near the runway, as confirmed by US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and airport spokespeople.

The fire was quickly brought under control by emergency crews and did not significantly affect air operations.

Safe return with no injuries

The aircraft, carrying 275 passengers and 15 crew members, returned safely to the airport at approximately 1:20 pm, after dumping fuel from an altitude of approximately 5,000 feet, authorities indicated.

United Airlines confirmed that there were no injuries and that the passengers would be rebooked on another aircraft to continue their journey to Japan later that same day.

Ongoing Investigation

The FAA announced it will open an investigation to determine the exact causes of the mechanical failure. United stated it will fully cooperate with regulatory authorities during the process.

The incident adds to a series of recent events that have reignited the debate over the safety and maintenance of long-haul aircraft in the United States.