A United Airlines flight was forced to evacuate following an engine fire and an emergency landing at Los Angeles International Airport
A United Airlines flight was forced to evacuate and perform an emergency landing after a fire broke out mid-air.
The aircraft was flying from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Newark, New Jersey, when air traffic control received reports of a fire in its left engine.
The plane turned back and landed safely at LAX at around 11.20am local time. Smoke could be seen billowing from the engine around 40 minutes later as the aircraft was parked on the runway, ABC7 reports.
All 256 passengers and 12 crew members evacuated the jet using emergency slides and air stairs before being taken by bus to the terminal, United said in a statement, The Mirror reports.
The airline added that it was working to ensure passengers reached their final destinations as soon as possible. One person suffered a cut to their finger, but no other injuries were reported.
The Federal Aviation Agency said in a statement: “United Airlines Flight 2127 returned safely to Los Angeles International Airport around 11:20 a.m. local time on Monday, March 2, due to a left engine issue. Passengers deplaned on a taxiway.
“The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner was heading to Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey. The FAA will investigate. Please contact the airline and airport for additional information.”