Pilot Issues Mayday Call Before Making Emergency Landing At Dulles Airport

United Airlines Flight 108, bound for Munich, Germany, made an emergency landing at Washington Dulles International Airport on July 25 after the pilot declared a mayday due to suspected engine failure. The Boeing 787, carrying 219 passengers and 11 crew members, encountered issues shortly after takeoff. At nearly 5,000 feet, the pilot reported "Engine failure, left engine," and declared an emergency, according to recorded air traffic control audio.

The air traffic controller guided the pilot to return to the airport, ensuring a clear path back. Data from Flightradar 24 showed the flight took off around 6:11 p.m. ET and safely returned to Dulles approximately two hours later. The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority confirmed that the plane was checked by Fire and Rescue personnel and towed to a gate without disrupting other flights.

United Airlines stated that all passengers deplaned normally and the flight was canceled. The airline arranged alternate travel for the passengers to reach their destination as soon as possible.

The emergency landing did not cause any disruptions at the airport.