A United Airlines flight bound for Newark was forced to return to Las Vegas shortly after take-off when cabin crew reported an alleged hijacking threat. A 25-year-old man was arrested in connection with the incident.
United Flight 1681, which had departed Harry Reid International Airport with 150 passengers and six crew members on board, turned back as a precaution after a flight attendant spotted a passenger sending text messages referring to taking control of the aircraft. The flight attendant immediately alerted the cockpit.
Pilot's account and FAA statement
Explaining the decision, the pilot told air traffic control: “The flight attendant saw him texting that he was going to hijack the aircraft. They called me. We went into lockdown, and we returned to Vegas”. The pilot added that the passengers showed "no restraint" because "he's unaware".
The Federal Aviation Administration issued a statement, saying: “United Airlines Flight 1681 returned safely to Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas around 11:05 p.m. local time on Saturday, Oct. 24, after the crew reported a passenger disturbance. The flight was headed to Newark Liberty International Airport. The FAA will investigate. Contact the airline and local authorities for more information.”
Arrest and aftermath
After landing in Las Vegas, authorities said all passengers were removed from the aircraft and the plane underwent a comprehensive inspection. PEOPLE publication reported Dante Milne, 25, was arrested on suspicion of making threats or conveying false information concerning acts of terrorism. Passengers flew the following day after being given an alternative flight.
United Airlines said: "United flight 1681 from Las Vegas to Newark on Saturday, Oct. 24, safely returned to Las Vegas to address a potential security concern. The flight was delayed overnight due to crew timeout, and departed for Newark on Sunday morning."
