Concerning 'hijack' text prompts United flight to turn back, cockpit audio indicates

A United Airlines flight returned to Las Vegas shortly after takeoff Saturday night after a crew member saw a passenger texting about hijacking the plane, the airline confirmed. United flight 1681 had been bound for Newark Liberty International Airport but turned back to address a “potential security concern.” According to cockpit audio shared online, crew initiated lockdown procedures after the flight attendant noticed the texting and informed ATC. The passenger, later arrested upon landing, allegedly made “terroristic” threats on the flight, police said. A United spokesperson noted the aircraft safely returned and departed again for Newark Sunday morning. The 25-year-old posted $10,000 bail and is scheduled to appear in court Tuesday, while the FAA will investigate.