Washington, D.C. – On Wednesday, a United States Coast Guard plane transporting Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin experienced a right‑engine failure while approaching Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The crew promptly declared an emergency and, with the help of air‑traffic control, performed a single‑engine landing that officials described as “routine” despite the serious situation.
Emergency declared, pilots act swiftly
According to the pilot’s transmission, the aircraft lost its right engine and requested an immediate landing at DCA. “We just lost our right engine. We’d like to declare an emergency and make an immediate landing at DCA,” the pilot reported. The flight, identified as Coast Guard 101, carried 14 individuals and had 2.5 hours of fuel remaining at the time of the emergency.
Secretary Mullin praises the crew
Secretary Mullin took to social media shortly after the landing to commend the professionalism of the Coast Guard aviators. “The United States Coast Guard pilots made the single‑engine landing feel routine. No panic, just straight professionalism. After we landed, the pilots told me that was a first for them! We could not have been in better hands,” he wrote.
All passengers, including the Secretary, were reported safe and unharmed. Mullin’s post, shared on X, included a video of the aircraft’s touchdown and a statement that the crew’s calm handling of the emergency exemplified the dedication of America’s service members.
What this means for travelers
While the incident was isolated, it underscores the importance of rigorous training for Coast Guard pilots who routinely support federal officials and respond to emergencies. The successful landing also highlights the robustness of safety protocols at Reagan National Airport, a hub that handles a high volume of flights daily.
Travelers in the Washington, D.C., area reported no delays or cancellations as a result of the emergency landing. Airport officials confirmed that the runway was cleared quickly and normal operations resumed within minutes.
Context and next steps
Secretary Mullin, a former U.S. senator from Oklahoma, is currently overseeing the Department of Homeland Security’s efforts to secure the nation’s borders, protect critical infrastructure, and respond to emergencies. His presence on the flight was part of routine travel for departmental business.
The Coast Guard is expected to conduct a full investigation into the engine failure to determine its cause and to ensure that similar incidents are prevented in the future. Findings will be shared with the Department of Homeland Security and relevant aviation safety boards.
For now, the incident serves as a reminder of the skill and dedication of the men and women who keep America’s skies safe, even when faced with unexpected challenges.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
