MANILA -- Philippine Airlines praised its pilot who safely landed in Los Angeles airport its Boeing jumbo jet that encountered engine trouble, saving all 347 passengers on board.

It was the call of Capt. Triston Simeon to "to turn back the plane and make a precautionary landing," airline spokeswoman Cielo Villaluna told DZMM.

The Manila-bound Boeing 777 made an emergency landing shortly after takeoff after one of its engines caught fire. Authorities are investigating the incident.

"Hats off to you B777 Capt. Triston Simeon for successfully landing the aircraft at Los Angeles' Tom Bradley International Airport!" Villaluna said in a Facebook post.

Several netizens congratulated the pilot for the safe landing and for "maintaining stability while under pressure."

"We affirm that safety is our top priority and that Philippine Airlines is fully cooperating with the concerned airport and aviation authorities," a statement from the airline read.

• PAL flight makes emergency landing at LAX after engine spews flames