On August 4, local time, multiple U.S. media revealed that shortly after United Airlines Flight 108's Boeing 787 took off from Washington Dulles International Airport on July 25, the aircraft's engine malfunctioned and the pilot issued an "emergency call for help" (Mayday). The passenger plane involved, carrying 219 passengers and 11 crew members, encountered a malfunction while climbing to about 3,000 meters.
The recording of the pilot's call with the tower was also disclosed. At the time of the incident, the pilot reported to the tower air traffic controller: "Failure, engine failure, left engine, United Airlines Flight 108. Emergency declared." The pilot also sent out an "emergency call for help" (Mayday).
Air traffic controllers instructed the pilot to turn right and return to the airport. However, due to the heavy fuel load and heavy weight of the aircraft, it was unable to land immediately. The aircraft had to remain in the air until it had consumed enough fuel to reach a landing weight.
After more than 30 minutes of flight, the pilot successfully landed the plane at Dulles Airport, and all passengers and crew members disembarked safely. United Airlines said the plane suffered a "mechanical failure."
