United Airlines Flight Returns to Las Vegas Following Security Threat
A passenger was arrested after a flight attendant reported a hijacking threat sent via text message during the flight.
A United Airlines flight bound for New Jersey was forced to return to its departure airport in Nevada on Saturday night following a reported security disturbance. Flight 1681, which was carrying 150 passengers and six crew members, had departed from Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas and was en route to Newark Liberty International Airport when the incident occurred.
The situation unfolded after a flight attendant observed a passenger sending text messages that allegedly contained threats to take control of the aircraft. Upon noticing the messages, the crew member immediately alerted the pilot to the potential danger. The pilot subsequently communicated the threat to air traffic control, stating that the crew had initiated lockdown procedures and decided to return to Las Vegas.
According to reports from the flight deck, the pilot noted that the other passengers on board were unaware of the situation as it was unfolding. The aircraft landed safely back at Harry Reid International Airport at approximately 11:05 p.m. local time. Following the landing, all passengers were deplaned, and the aircraft underwent a comprehensive security inspection by authorities.
Law enforcement officials identified the passenger as 25-year-old Dante Milne. He was taken into custody by local authorities and faces charges related to making threats or conveying false information regarding acts of terrorism. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with the Federal Aviation Administration confirming that it will conduct its own review of the events.
United Airlines issued a statement confirming that the flight returned to the airport to address a potential security concern. The airline reported that the flight was delayed overnight due to crew timeout requirements, but the passengers were ultimately able to depart for their original destination of Newark on Sunday morning.
This incident highlights the stringent security protocols maintained by commercial airlines to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. While the disruption caused significant delays for those traveling on Flight 1681, the quick response of the flight crew and the subsequent cooperation with law enforcement ensured that the situation was resolved without further incident.