Dulles Airport Update: United Airlines Aircraft Involved in Reported On-Ground Incident

An aviation incident involving a United Airlines aircraft was reported Tuesday at Washington Dulles International Airport, prompting an emergency response and causing temporary operational disruptions on the airfield.

According to early information, United Airlines Flight 803 (UA803), a Boeing 777 scheduled to depart from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) for Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND), experienced an engine malfunction during takeoff.

Initial reports suggest the issue involved an engine blowout or possible engine fire shortly after departure, which resulted in debris and heat igniting several brush fires near the runway area.

Airport fire and rescue teams, along with support from multiple local fire departments, responded immediately.

Fire crews worked to extinguish brush fires reported near Runway 1C, while airport operations teams secured the affected zones and ensured safety for personnel and aircraft.

Following the engine malfunction, the aircraft entered a holding pattern to safely dump fuel in line with standard emergency procedures before returning to Dulles for an emergency landing.

Smoke was visible near the runway as firefighters addressed the ground fires. Authorities confirmed that no passengers or crew members were injured.

The aircraft ultimately landed safely back at Dulles International Airport.

Emergency personnel remained on-site after the landing to ensure the situation was fully stabilized and to conduct safety assessments.

Some unconfirmed information circulating online suggests that the same aircraft may have experienced a similar engine-related issue earlier in the year on June 21, 2025. However, officials have not verified that report, and no connection has been established between that event and Tuesday’s incident.

The Federal Aviation Administration, United Airlines, and airport officials are expected to conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact cause of the engine malfunction and the resulting brush fires.

This remains an active investigation, and additional verified updates will be shared as more information becomes available.