United flight to San Francisco canceled after engine catches fire during Beijing takeoff

A United Airlines flight bound for San Francisco was canceled Monday after one of its engines caught fire during takeoff at Beijing Capital International Airport, a spokesperson confirmed.

Flight UA889, operated by a Boeing 777-200, was accelerating down the runway when the right engine suddenly ignited, according to Global Times, an English-language Chinese newspaper.

A United spokesperson said the pilots “aborted its takeoff while still on the ground after losing power in one engine.” They added, “The aircraft safely came to a stop and passengers deplaned to buses on the runway.” There were 229 passengers on board.

Beijing airport officials reported that a mechanical failure had affected both engines. No injuries were reported, and emergency crews responded quickly to contain the fire.

United Airlines provided hotel accommodations and rebooking options for affected passengers. A replacement flight, UA3045, is scheduled to depart at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday.

In February, United Airlines Flight UA1382 from Houston to New York was halted during takeoff after a similar incident in which an engine emitted smoke and fire, prompting an emergency evacuation via slides and stairs.