LOS ANGELES, March 2 (Xinhua) -- A United Airlines flight returned to Los Angeles for an emergency landing on Monday morning shortly after takeoff due to an engine issue, authorities said.
"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," the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said in a statement, adding that passengers deplaned on a taxiway.
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner was heading to Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey, according to the FAA.
The Los Angeles Fire Department confirmed in an alert that the plane "has landed safely and is clear of all passengers and crew members following reported engine problems."
"No patients requiring hospital transport have been identified at this time," the department said.
A total of 256 passengers and 12 crew members were on board, the Los Angeles Times reported, citing a spokesperson for the airline.
The FAA said it will investigate the emergency landing. ■