A United Airlines flight bound for New Jersey was forced to return to Las Vegas after a passenger allegedly sent disturbing messages threatening to hijack the aircraft and crash it into a specific row of passengers. The incident occurred on Saturday night, aboard United Airlines Flight 1681, which departed Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas for Newark Liberty International Airport. The aircraft was carrying approximately 150 passengers and six crew members.
Passengers' chilling message
According to a criminal complaint, the 25-year-old passenger allegedly sent messages stating that he intended to hijack the plane and "crash ur row only." Authorities have not disclosed how the messages were sent or who received them.
A flight attendant reportedly noticed the threatening messages and alerted the pilot. The crew immediately implemented security precautions, secured the cockpit and arranged for the aircraft to return to Las Vegas.
In audio recordings of communications with air traffic control, the pilot explained that the flight attendant had seen the passenger texting about hijacking the aircraft, prompting the crew to initiate a lockdown and turn back.
The plane landed safely at Harry Reid International Airport later that night. Las Vegas police subsequently arrested the suspect on allegations of making threats or providing false information concerning an act of terrorism.
Suspect could face 20 years in prison
The suspect faces a charge that carries a potential prison sentence of one to 20 years if convicted. He is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. Following the aircraft's return, passengers were removed while authorities addressed the security concern. No injuries were reported.
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The incident caused an overnight disruption for travellers after the flight crew reached its legally permitted duty-time limits. The airline subsequently arranged for the journey to Newark to resume on Sunday morning.
United Airlines confirmed that the aircraft returned safely because of a potential security concern, while the Federal Aviation Administration said it would investigate the incident.
The episode has renewed concerns about aviation security and the risks posed by threatening behaviour aboard commercial aircraft.
(With inputs from AP)
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