Pilot held over breathalyser test

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/england/london/8061077.stm

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A pilot stopped at Heathrow Airport as he was about to fly a Boeing 777 to Chicago has failed a breathalyser test.

American Airlines said its pilot was stopped at the west London airport as he boarded flight AA87, on Wednesday, which had 204 passengers on board.

The pilot, arrested after the failed test, was spotted by airport security personnel who called the police.

The aircraft took off for Chicago at 1130 BST after an hour's delay and with another pilot at the controls.

A statement from 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.

"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."