United flight returns to Las Vegas after passenger texts hijack threat
A United Airlines flight bound for Newark turned back to Las Vegas when a crew member saw a passenger texting about hijacking the aircraft.
On Oct. 24, United Flight 1681 left Las Vegas for Newark with roughly 150 passengers and six crew members. During the climb, a flight attendant noticed a passenger texting language that suggested an intention to hijack the aircraft. She immediately informed the pilot, who declared a lockdown and coordinated with air traffic control.
The plane aborted the journey and returned to Harry Reid International Airport, touching down at about 11:05 p.m. local time. After the safe landing, passengers were removed, inspected, and rebooked on an alternate flight the following morning. Federal Aviation Administration officials confirmed the aircraft was inspected and said the investigation remains ongoing. The passenger’s identity has not been released.
Why it matters
It shows how airlines and regulators respond quickly to potential in-flight security threats.
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