United flight makes emergency landing at LAX after engine fire reports - Los Angeles Times
Los Angeles Times
by Salvador HernandezMarch 2, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A United Airlines flight bound for New Jersey made an emergency return to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) after reports of an engine fire. The Boeing 787-9 aircraft, carrying 256 passengers and a crew of 12, departed from LAX at 10:14 a.m. but turned back just minutes later following the issue. Firefighters were dispatched to Runway 25 as the plane headed back to LAX, with no injuries reported during the evacuation.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) briefly halted ground operations at LAX due to the incident but lifted the stop shortly after. United Airlines confirmed that all passengers and crew safely exited the plane using slides and stairs before being transported to airport terminals. Firefighters were on standby, closely monitoring the engine for any signs of fire or damage.
The incident occurred just over an hour after takeoff, with the aircraft landing at 11:29 a.m. without further complications. United Airlines stated it is working to assist passengers in reaching their final destinations. The cause of the emergency remains under investigation, but authorities have not confirmed whether there was an active fire during landing.
This incident highlights the importance of aviation safety protocols and rapid response systems. While no injuries were reported, such events remind travelers and stakeholders of the critical role played by air traffic control, emergency services, and airlines in ensuring passenger safety. For those interested in news and updates on aviation safety, this story underscores the necessity of preparedness and quick action in high-stakes situations.
Verticals
newscalifornia
Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 3/2/2026