LAS VEGAS – Federal authorities arrested a 25‑year‑old man at Harry Reid International Airport Saturday night after he allegedly texted a threat to hijack United Flight 1681, a passenger jet en route to New Jersey. The flight, which departed Las Vegas, returned to the city about 13 minutes after takeoff and landed without incident.
Threat discovered in‑flight
According to the Las Vegas police and the Federal Aviation Administration, the suspect – identified as Dante Milne – sent a text message from his seat stating his intention to take control of the aircraft. A flight attendant saw the message and promptly alerted the cockpit. The crew chose not to confront the passenger directly, following guidance from aviation expert Reed Yadon, who said the pilot’s priority was to avoid escalating the situation. “Let’s do nothing, just observe,” Yadon recounted the pilot’s instruction.
Crew response and safe return
While the pilots coordinated with air‑traffic control, they also faced a separate safety concern: the aircraft was still heavy with fuel, making an immediate landing difficult. The captain requested a cancellation of the approach clearance, stating, “We are quite a bit overweight,” and later added, “We might need the entire runway.” Controllers approved the use of the full runway, and the Boeing 737 safely taxied to the gate after about 30 minutes.
Air‑traffic control audio captured the moment law‑enforcement marshals arrived at the aircraft, with a controller noting, “I see marshals coming out right now.” The crew’s handling of the incident earned praise from Yadon, who said, “I think the crew handled it excellently. I think they could not have done a better job.”
Arrest and next steps
Milne was taken into custody at the gate and charged with making a threat on board a passenger jet. He was released on a $10,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday.
This incident underscores the importance of vigilant cabin crew and coordinated federal response in maintaining aviation safety. Passengers are reminded to report any suspicious behavior to flight attendants immediately.
Original reporting: News 3 KSNV Las Vegas (local) — read the source article.
