Las Vegas Flight Returns after Flight Attendant Catches Passenger Texting about Hijacking Plane

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department has arrested a passenger on board a United flight from Las Vegas to New Jersey. The incident took place on Saturday, October 24, 2026, and the police were able to confirm the passenger’s identity by Monday, when the LVMPD announced the arrest. Just Banter or Something Else? The suspect allegedly sent text messages about hijacking United Flight 1681, when he was already on board and it took off. The suspect, D.M., who is 25 years old, was arrested on suspicion of making a threat to commit an act of terrorism. Boeing 737 MAX 8 took off at approximately 10:52 from Harry Reid International Airport and began its flight to Newark Liberty International Airport with 150 passengers and six crew on board. Shortly after departure, one of the flight attendants saw D.M.’s text messages about his intent to hijack the flight. The flight attendant immediately notified the captain, enacting security protocols. Access to the cockpit was immediately restricted. In an audio recording transmitted by the captain to air traffic controllers, the captain is heard saying that the passenger was still unaware that his alleged plan to hijack the flight was uncovered. The crew decided to abandon the original route and returned to Las Vegas, transmitting the customary 7700 emergency transponder code, which is standard for a general emergency. At 11:05 pm local time, the plane arrived back at the airport and reached the gate at 11:42 pm without any disturbances. Passengers were ordered to disembark, with D.M. cuffed by security personnel and escorted out of the plane. The man did not put up any resistance, as confirmed by the LVMPD. Suspect Released on Bail, Faces Up to 20 Years Behind Bars Although D.M.’s motives remain unknown, as does whether he really intended to hijack the flight or was just jesting with someone online, the case highlights the aviation industry’s zero tolerance towards any potential dangers. D.M. posted bail on Tuesday, October 27, released on a $10,000 bond, and he faces between 1 and 20 years in prison, depending on how seriously his offense is taken by the court. This is based on Nevada’s law that determines that offenses about providing false information about acts of terrorism can also be prosecuted and punished by jail.