Passenger Threatens Hijack, Flight Returns to Vegas

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A United Airlines flight turned back mid-air after a passenger allegedly made terroristic threats, prompting the crew to return to Las Vegas. United Flight 1681 departed Saturday night from Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, carrying 150 passengers and six crew members, en route to Newark Liberty International Airport.

During the flight, a flight attendant reportedly noticed a 25-year-old man, Dante Milne, texting about his intention to hijack the aircraft. The attendant immediately informed the pilots, who took control of the situation without alerting the passenger. According to one pilot, the passenger was unaware of the situation and remained compliant throughout the incident.

Flight Diverted and Passenger Arrested

The Boeing 737 landed safely at 11:05 p.m. on Saturday night, where law enforcement was waiting at the gate. The Las Vegas Police Department confirmed that Milne was arrested on charges of making terroristic threats and providing false information related to an act of terrorism. The incident led to the flight being diverted back to Las Vegas, where officers detained Milne without incident.

United Airlines declined to provide further details about what the flight attendant saw, but confirmed that the flight was delayed overnight and departed for Newark the following morning. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stated that its investigation into the incident remains ongoing.

Authorities Respond to Threats

The Los Vegas Police Department provided a statement confirming the events, stating that the flight turned around due to the passenger’s threats. Officers responded to the airport and detained the individual, ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew.

Source: Daily Wire

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claire.thomson