United Boeing 737 Returns to Las Vegas After Passenger Hijack Text Prompted Diversion

A United Airlines Boeing 737 scheduled for Newark turned back to Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas on Saturday night after the crew reported a passenger disturbance.

The airline issued a statement that the flight, carrying 150 passengers and six crew members, “safely returned.”

“safely returned.”

Crew members observed a passenger sending text messages indicating an intent to hijack the aircraft.

A pilot relayed the information to air traffic control, prompting an unplanned landing and a temporary lockdown on board.

Federal Aviation Administration investigators opened a probe into the incident following the diversion.

The flight’s original destination was Newark, New Jersey.

Officials described the situation as a “potential security concern.”