Jet returns safely to SC after emergency declared

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — Officials say a jet carrying 53 people from South Carolina to Washington, D.C., has landed safely in Charleston after the pilot reported a mechanical problem.

Charleston International Airport spokeswoman Becky Beaman says the pilot of the two-engine jet reported a mechanical problem shortly after takeoff Tuesday morning. He decided to return and began dumping fuel en route.

Beaman says the pilot rescinded the emergency and was able to land without incident.

The U.S. Airways flight operated by Air Wisconsin was carrying 50 passengers and three crew members.

An airline spokesman says passengers were being rebooked on other flights.

Copyright 2009 The Associated Press.