Man accused of threatening to hijack United flight says it was a drunken joke
United Flight 1681 Diverts to Las Vegas After Text Threat, Passenger Held on Terrorism Charge
A United Airlines passenger allegedly threatened to hijack a flight from Las Vegas to Newark on Saturday, forcing the aircraft to return to Harry Reid International Airport and leading to a federal terrorism‑related charge against the 25‑year‑old man.
The Incident
On October 24, United Airlines Flight 1681, a Boeing 737 carrying 150 passengers and six crew members, departed Las Vegas for Newark. Shortly after take‑off, a flight attendant discovered a text message on a passenger’s phone that read, “I’m gonna hijack this b- and crash ur row only.” The attendant reported the content to the captain, who secured the cockpit and initiated a “lockdown” procedure. The aircraft turned back, landing safely in Las Vegas at about 11:05 p.m.
The crew explained to air‑traffic control that the passenger had not realized the aircraft was returning. “The passenger does not know anything is going on,” the pilot told controllers. “The flight attendant saw him texting that he was going to hijack the aircraft and called me and we went lockdown…No restraint, passenger is compliant because he’s unaware.”
Passenger’s Account
The suspect, identified as Dante Milne of Las Vegas, said investigators he had been drinking before boarding. “I had a beer and a few shots at an airport bar before getting on the plane,” he told detectives. He fell asleep on the flight and woke to find the plane turning back. When questioned about the alleged threat, Milne described the message as “poorly worded banter between coworkers” and said he never intended to take control of the aircraft. “I apologized for what happened,” he added.
Milne was reportedly returning home after a three‑day apprenticeship training program in underwater welding. He was released on $10,000 bail and intends to plead not guilty. His next court appearance is scheduled for January 5.
Legal Proceedings
Federal authorities charged Milne with one count of making threats or conveying false information regarding an act of terrorism. The incident is under investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration, which noted a “passenger disturbance” on the flight. The United Airlines flight was delayed overnight because the crew reached their permitted working hours and departed for Newark the next day.
United Airlines Statement
United Airlines said the flight returned to Las Vegas to address a “potential security concern.” “The flight was delayed overnight due to crew timeout and departed for Newark this morning,” the airline told Fox News Digital.
Context and Aftermath
The text threat prompted immediate action by flight staff, averting a potential security breach. While the flight was diverted, the cabin was secured, and all passengers remained safe. Authorities are evaluating whether the threat was credible or a misunderstanding. The case underscores ongoing concerns about passenger threats and the importance of vigilance on board.
Milne’s case will be heard in federal court in January, where he will face the terrorism‑related charge. The outcome will be closely watched by aviation security officials and the public alike.