FlightFollowerMAYDAY United Boeing 777 Loses Engine on takeoff | Fire/debris on ground
Engine Loss on the Way to Tokyo
United Airlines Flight UA803 departed Washington Dulles International Airport for Tokyo Haneda on 13 December 2025. The Boeing 777-200ER, registration N78004, had 290 people aboard according to contemporary reporting. Shortly after takeoff, the crew lost power in the left engine and declared an emergency.
Fuel Burn Before the Return
The aircraft stopped its climb at about 5,000 feet and entered a hold while fuel was dumped to reduce landing weight. At the airport, emergency crews dealt with a small grass fire associated with the engine event. The aircraft was then positioned for a return to Dulles.
Landing at Dulles
The crew landed on Runway 01R about 45 minutes after departure. The aircraft remained on the runway while emergency personnel inspected it. The public record describes the engine failure and return but does not establish a final mechanical cause.
Accident Facts
- Date
- 13 December 2025
- Flight
- United UA803
- Aircraft
- Boeing 777-200ER
- Registration
- N78004
- Location
- Washington Dulles International Airport, Virginia, USA
- Occupants
- 290
- Outcome
- Safe return landing
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