Additional Coverage:
- Southwest Airlines pilot arrested at Georgia airport for allegedly showing up to work intoxicated: police (foxnews.com)
Southwest Pilot Arrested for Intoxication Before Takeoff
A Southwest Airlines pilot, 52-year-old David Allsop, was arrested at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport on Wednesday. Chatham County Sheriff’s Office charged him with driving under the influence (DUI).
Flight Delayed for Nearly Four Hours
Allsop’s arrest occurred before Southwest Flight 3772 was scheduled to depart for Chicago. The flight eventually took off around 11 a.m., almost four hours late. Southwest confirmed the incident and stated that Allsop has been removed from duty.
Southwest Apologizes for Disruption
Southwest apologized to passengers for the disruption, noting that their safety is paramount. They accommodated passengers on other flights while Flight 3772 was grounded.
Drunk Pilots a Rare Occurrence
While it’s uncommon, pilots being arrested for intoxication before flights has occurred in the past. Last year, Japan Airlines grounded a flight after a pilot consumed alcohol the night before.
Authorities Investigating
Authorities are currently investigating the incident involving Allsop.