A Newark-bound United Airlines flight returned to Las Vegas on October 24, 2026, after a flight attendant reportedly spotted a message on a passenger’s phone suggesting he intended to hijack the aircraft. A 25-year-old man was subsequently arrested.

Flight 1681 departed Harry Reid International Airport before the crew became aware of the alleged threat. According to air traffic control recordings reported by PEOPLE, a flight attendant alerted the pilots, who initiated security procedures and arranged to return. The pilot described the passenger as compliant and apparently unaware that the aircraft was heading back to Las Vegas.

The Boeing 737 was carrying 150 passengers and six crew members. It landed safely, and officials reported no injuries. Las Vegas police said officers detained a passenger following reports of threats aboard the flight.

The Associated Press reported that the man was arrested on a charge of making a threat or providing false information concerning an act of terrorism. The allegations have not been proven in court.

United said the aircraft returned because of a potential security concern. The disruption delayed the journey overnight, with the flight departing for Newark the following morning. The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed that it would investigate the incident.