United Airlines Boeing 787 Experiences Engine Failure Shortly After Takeoff, Declares Mayday

A United Airlines Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, en route to Munich, experienced a critical engine failure shortly after departing from Washington, prompting the pilots to issue a Mayday call. The aircraft, identified by call sign UA108, was at approximately 50,000 feet when the left engine malfunctioned. The flight crew immediately informed air traffic control and initiated emergency procedures for a safe return to the airport. After the distress signal, the aircraft remained airborne for 2 hours and 38 minutes. The pilots worked with air traffic control to manage the situation, requesting to dump fuel while maintaining an altitude of 6,000 feet. They entered a holding pattern northwest of Washington to facilitate the fuel release. Upon completion, the pilots requested an ILS approach for landing. The aircraft landed safely but required towing. No injuries were reported.