Shocking United Airlines Threat Forces Overnight Delay

Image Source: Fox News

United Airlines Flight 1681 returned to Las Vegas late Saturday after a passenger allegedly made threatening statements about hijacking the aircraft, triggering a major security response and an overnight delay for everyone on board.

The Boeing 737 was traveling from Harry Reid International Airport to Newark Liberty International Airport on October 24 when a flight attendant reportedly noticed a passenger texting about hijacking the plane. The attendant alerted the pilot, who contacted air traffic control and initiated emergency procedures.

United Airlines Flight Threat Triggers Urgent Response

The aircraft carried approximately 150 passengers and six crew members. It landed safely in Las Vegas at about 11:05 p.m., according to information cited by Fox News and several other news outlets. No injuries were reported during the diversion.

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officers detained the passenger after the aircraft returned to the airport. Police identified him as 25-year-old Dante Milne. He was arrested on suspicion of making a threat or conveying false information concerning an act of terrorism and was later booked into the Clark County Detention Center.

Authorities have not indicated that the aircraft was in immediate physical danger. However, the alleged messages were treated seriously, underscoring how quickly a perceived aviation security threat can prompt a flight diversion, airport response and law enforcement investigation.

Passengers Face a Long Overnight Delay

Although the flight returned safely, the disruption continued after landing. The crew had reached the limit of its legally permitted working hours, a situation commonly known as a crew timeout. United Airlines said the flight was delayed overnight and departed for Newark the following morning.

In a statement, United said Flight 1681 safely returned to Las Vegas to address a potential security concern. The airline also confirmed that the flight eventually continued after a new operating schedule was arranged.

Air traffic control audio obtained by ATC.com provided additional details about the response. A controller asked whether the passenger was compliant or restrained. A pilot reportedly said the passenger was compliant and did not know what was happening, while the crew maintained control of the situation.

Why the Plane Flew Additional Loops

The flight crew also told air traffic control that the aircraft was still “grossly overweight” for landing. The plane made two loops before returning to the airport, allowing it to burn fuel and reduce its landing weight.

An overweight landing can place additional stress on landing gear and other structural components. In an emergency, pilots may land immediately when circumstances require it, but when time allows, they can burn fuel or follow other procedures to reduce the aircraft’s weight.

Flight-tracking information cited in the report showed the aircraft remained airborne before landing in Las Vegas. The maneuver was part of the effort to complete the return safely, rather than evidence of a second emergency.

FAA Investigation Underway After Security Scare

The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed it is investigating the incident. The Department of Homeland Security and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department were also contacted for additional information.

The case comes amid continued concern about disruptive and threatening behavior aboard commercial aircraft. In May, another United Airlines flight diverted to Madison, Wisconsin, after a passenger allegedly made multiple attempts to breach the cockpit. That aircraft also landed safely while authorities addressed the situation.

• The flight departed Las Vegas for Newark on October 24.
• A flight attendant reportedly saw threatening text messages.
• The aircraft returned with 150 passengers and six crew members aboard.
• Dante Milne was arrested after the plane landed safely.
• The FAA is reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident.

For travelers, the episode highlights the consequences of reporting suspicious behavior in the cabin. A single message or alarming action can lead to a rapid cockpit response, an unscheduled landing, missed connections and hours of uncertainty for passengers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened on United Airlines Flight 1681?

The flight returned to Las Vegas after a passenger allegedly made threatening statements about hijacking the aircraft. The plane landed safely, and police arrested the passenger.

Who was arrested after the flight returned?

Las Vegas police identified the passenger as 25-year-old Dante Milne. He was arrested on suspicion of making a threat or conveying false information concerning an act of terrorism.

Why were passengers delayed overnight?

The original crew reached its legally permitted working-hour limit after the diversion. United Airlines arranged for the flight to depart for Newark the following morning.

Were there any injuries?

No injuries were reported. The aircraft landed safely after returning to Harry Reid International Airport.

Is the incident still being investigated?

Yes. The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed that it launched an investigation into the security concern and the flight’s return to Las Vegas.