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United Airlines Flight Returns to Las Vegas After Passenger Allegedly Threatens to Hijack Plane
WORLD NEWS | AVIATION & SECURITY
A United Airlines flight bound for New Jersey was forced to return to Las Vegas after a flight attendant reportedly spotted a passenger sending text messages threatening to hijack the aircraft, prompting the crew to initiate emergency security procedures.
The incident occurred on Saturday night, October 24, aboard United Flight 1681, which departed Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas for Newark Liberty International Airport. The Boeing 737 was carrying approximately 150 passengers and six crew members.
What happened aboard the flight?
According to air traffic control audio cited in media reports, a flight attendant alerted the pilot after allegedly seeing the passenger texting about hijacking the aircraft.
The pilot informed air traffic control that the crew had initiated a lockdown and decided to return to Las Vegas. The passenger reportedly remained unaware that the crew had raised the alarm and was described as cooperative.
Because the aircraft was still carrying substantial fuel, the pilot had to allow time for the plane to burn off fuel before landing. The aircraft subsequently returned safely to Las Vegas, and no injuries were reported.
Passenger arrested as authorities investigate
The Associated Press reported that Las Vegas police detained a 25-year-old passenger following the alleged threat. He was identified in subsequent local reports as Dante Milne and was accused of making a threat or providing false information concerning an act of terrorism.
The allegations have not been established as proven facts, and the reported arrest does not by itself establish guilt. An attorney listed for the suspect did not immediately respond to the Associated Press's request for comment. His initial court appearance was scheduled for Tuesday, October 27.
The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed that it would investigate the incident after the crew reported a passenger disturbance. United Airlines said the aircraft returned to address a potential security concern.
Flight delayed until the following day
The disruption delayed passengers traveling to Newark. United said the flight was held overnight because of crew duty-time limitations and departed for its destination on Sunday, October 25.
The incident highlights how reports of potential threats aboard commercial aircraft can trigger immediate security responses, even before investigators determine the seriousness or credibility of the alleged threat.
Why this incident matters
- Aviation security: Crew members are trained to report suspected threats so that authorities can assess potential risks.
- Passenger safety: Returning to the departure airport allowed the crew and law enforcement to address the concern without continuing the journey.
- Legal consequences: Threats involving aircraft can trigger serious criminal investigations, although the outcome depends on the evidence and legal proceedings.
Note:
The incident demonstrates how a single reported threat can disrupt an entire flight and trigger a coordinated response involving airline personnel, air traffic controllers, airport authorities and law enforcement. Investigators will need to establish the circumstances surrounding the messages and determine the appropriate legal outcome.
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