A United Airlines flight was forced to turn back after a cabin crew member spotted a passenger sending messages about seizing control of the aircraft. The incident occurred on Saturday, prompting the pilot to declare a lockdown and return to the departure airport.
Flight Details and Incident
United Flight 1681 was carrying 150 passengers and six crew members from Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas to Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey. Shortly after take-off, the pilot informed an air traffic controller: "The flight attendant saw him texting that he was going to hijack the aircraft."
The pilot added that fellow passengers showed "no restraint" because "he's unaware." The flight headed back to Las Vegas after the messages were discovered.
Response and Investigation
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said: "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 FAA will investigate, and the agency advised contacting the airline and local authorities for more information.
All those on board were disembarked once the aircraft touched down in Las Vegas, and the plane underwent a thorough inspection, according to authorities.
Arrest and Aftermath
Dante Milne, 25, was taken into custody on suspicion of making threats or conveying false information concerning acts of terrorism, according to PEOPLE. Passengers were placed on an alternative flight and departed the following day.
A spokesperson for United Airlines commented: "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.
