U.S. Homeland Security chief's jet catches fire during flight to DC

The incident occurred mid-flight aboard a Gulfstream C-37A jet. Due to critical issues with the right-hand engine, the crew diverted course and headed for Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

A total of 14 people were aboard, including Mullin and senior Department of Homeland Security officials. No injuries were reported.

During the flight, the pilot radioed air traffic controllers to report the loss of the right engine, following which the crew formally declared an in-flight emergency.

After landing safely, Mullin commended the flight crew, stating that the single-engine approach and touchdown proceeded smoothly. According to him, the pilots acknowledged that this was the first time they faced such an operational failure in flight.

The U.S. Coast Guard has operated this modified business jet for VIP and executive transport duties since 2002.

Department of Homeland Security personnel have repeatedly raised concerns regarding the airframe's wear and tear, as well as its outdated avionics and communication suites.

In 2025, the department procured two new Gulfstream 700 aircraft to support executive transport requirements. It remains unclear why Mullin was traveling aboard the older C-37A airframe on this occasion.