Airline pilot breathalysed and found over the limit

Thursday 21st May 2009

An airline pilot breathalysed at Heathrow airport was found to be over the limit prior to operating a transatlantic passenger plane.

The police were contacted by security staff before the pilot could board his American Airlines flight to Chicago carrying 204 passengers.

The flight, scheduled to take off at 10.15am on Wednesday, was delayed while the airline organised a replacement pilot to fly the Boeing 777. The plane departed an hour and a quarter later than planned at 11:30am.

American Airlines said: "An American Airlines pilot was arrested at Heathrow yesterday (Wednesday) having failed a breathalyser test.

"Police had been called by airport staff working at the security control post.

"Our primary concern is for the safety and comfort of our passengers and crews.

"The company has strict policies on alcohol and substance abuse and holds its employees to the highest standards.

"Employees at all levels of the company are not allowed to be on duty while under the influence of drugs or alcohol and regular screening is carried out."