United Passenger Who Allegedly Sent Text Claiming He Would ‘Hijack’ Plane Told Police He Drank Beer and Shots Before Boarding

A passenger on a United Airlines flight was arrested for allegedly threatening to hijack the plane shortly after takeoff from Las Vegas on Saturday, 24 October. The incident unfolded aboard Flight 1681, which was scheduled to travel from Harry Reid International Airport to Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey.

Dante Raymond Milne, a 25-year-old from Woodridge, New Jersey, was taken into custody after a flight attendant reported seeing him send a text message declaring, “I’m gonna hijack this b****.” The alarming message was purportedly sent to another passenger seated in a different row. The Boeing 737 was forced to return to Las Vegas less than 20 minutes after departing, as per standard protocols for dealing with passenger disturbances.

According to an arrest report acquired by KVVU, a local news affiliate, flight attendants notified the captain of the suspected threat after the plane had safely ascended past 10,000 feet. The crew quickly initiated emergency procedures, leading to the aircraft’s turnaround and landing back in Las Vegas at around 11.05 p.m. local time.

Milne informed authorities that he had been drinking at an airport bar prior to boarding, consuming beer and shots. Initially, he claimed he could not recall the contents of his text messages; however, he later described the hijacking claim as mere “banter” among friends. Milne expressed remorse for his actions and insisted there was no intention to harm anyone or take control of the aircraft.

On landing, two police officers escorted Milne off the plane, where he was later booked into the Clark County Detention Center on charges of making a terroristic threat. As reported, he has since posted bail, set at $20,000. His attorney announced plans for him to plead not guilty, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for 5 January 2024.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that the flight returned safely following the crew’s report of a “passenger disturbance” and has stated that an investigation into the incident is underway. A representative from the airport added that there were no injuries resulting from the situation described as a potential safety concern.

Following the incident, United Airlines stated the flight was redirected to address the possible threat posed by the passenger. The aircraft, carrying 150 passengers and six crew members, was delayed for the night due to crew time regulations and ultimately departed the following morning, 25 October.

The case will be closely monitored as it raises broader questions about airport security and passenger behaviour on flights. With increasing scrutiny on air travel safety, incidents of this nature are taken very seriously by aviation authorities and airline personnel alike.

As investigations continue, the ramifications of Milne’s reported actions serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining vigilance and adhering to safety protocols during air travel. The upcoming court dates will further determine the legal outcomes of this serious incident.