A United Airlines flight was forced to divert back to Las Vegas shortly after takeoff due to a safety concern raised by a flight attendant. This incident occurred on Saturday, 24 October, when a passenger allegedly sent a message stating he intended to hijack the aircraft.
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The aircraft, a Boeing 737, took off from Harry Reid International Airport at approximately 11 p.m. local time, with a destination of Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey. However, within just 20 minutes, air traffic control recordings indicated that the flight had returned to its departure point, raising concerns about the safety of those on board.
According to reports, the flight attendant observed the passenger texting a message suggesting hijacking intentions and subsequently notified the flight crew. An air traffic control audio recording captures a conversation in which a controller asked the flight crew whether the passenger was compliant or needed restraint. The pilot responded that the passenger seemed unaware of the predicament and was behaving cooperatively.
Despite the passenger’s compliance, the pilots noted that the aircraft was “grossly overweight” for landing. When an aircraft lands heavier than its standard weight, the strain it places on landing gear and structural components can pose risks. Therefore, the crew opted to circle the airport and burn off excess fuel before making the emergency landing. Flight data revealed that the plane completed two loops before returning to Las Vegas.
Upon returning safely, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) acknowledged the flight’s diversion was related to a reported passenger disturbance. The agency confirmed that it would conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, prioritising the safety of passengers and crew.
A spokesperson for Harry Reid International Airport stated that there were no injuries reported following the incident and termed it a “potential safety concern.” They deferred further inquiries to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, although there was no immediate response from them regarding the situation.
United Airlines echoed the airport’s remarks, asserting that the flight’s return was necessary to address a safety concern. Following the incident, the flight experienced a delay due to the crew reaching their maximum working hours, requiring an overnight pause before it could resume its journey. The affected flight carried 150 passengers along with six crew members.
In light of the incident, PEOPLE has reached out to the FBI’s Las Vegas office for additional commentary, but no immediate statement has been forthcoming.
As investigations continue, this event serves as a reminder of the vigilance required in air travel and the protocols in place to ensure passenger safety. Airlines and regulatory bodies are committed to addressing any safety threats swiftly to maintain the integrity of air travel amidst increasing scrutiny in the aviation industry.