Man arrested at Harry Reid Airport after alleged text threat to hijack United jet

A 25-year-old man was arrested at Harry Reid International Airport after a United Airlines flight bound for New Jersey returned safely to Las Vegas. Federal authorities identified the suspect as Dante Milne, who faces charges of making a threat on a passenger jet.

The incident began when United Flight 1681 diverted to Las Vegas following a text message in which the passenger allegedly threatened to hijack the aircraft. Air traffic control and flight-tracking data show the emergency unfolded about 13 minutes after the plane departed Las Vegas.

Crew actions during the flight were described as precautionary; the flight crew did not confront the passenger and followed an observe-and-secure approach. An unnamed aviation expert noted that pilots aimed to avoid escalating the situation and to keep the cabin and flight deck secure.

During the return, the aircraft was initially overweight and needed to burn off fuel before landing. Controllers advised that the full runway could be used, and the Boeing 737 eventually landed back at Harry Reid International Airport and taxied to the gate.

Law enforcement arrived at the aircraft soon after landing, and Milne was taken into custody upon arrival. He was released on bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday.