Delta Flight to New York City Cancelled as Pilot Arrives Drunk Moments Before Departure

Edinburgh: A Delta Airlines flight from Edinburgh, Scotland, to New York City was abruptly cancelled after the pilot was found to be under the influence of alcohol. The 61-year-old pilot was arrested just 30 minutes before takeoff when his blood alcohol level was discovered to be above the legal limit of 0.02.

The incident took place on June 16, with passengers already onboard the Boeing 767, ready for departure. However, the pilot’s arrest at Edinburgh Airport resulted in the cancellation of the flight. Delta Airlines promptly arranged for the re-accommodation of affected passengers.

Delta Airlines confirmed the occurrence and assured cooperation with authorities, stating, “Delta confirms that one of its crew members was taken into custody at EDI Airport. Delta is fully assisting with the ongoing inquiries. We sincerely apologize to the impacted customers for the cancellation of the EDI-JFK flight on June 16 and are working to provide suitable alternative arrangements.”

Under the UK’s Railways and Transport Safety Act of 2003, which enforces alcohol consumption limits for crew members, the pilot has been charged accordingly. The act specifies a legal blood-alcohol limit of 20 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood for airline personnel. Violators can face a maximum penalty of up to two years in jail.

Delta Airlines emphasized its strict alcohol policy and its zero-tolerance approach toward violations. A spokesperson for the company stated, “Our alcohol policy is one of the most stringent in the industry, and we will not tolerate any breach of regulations.”

The pilot is scheduled to appear at the Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday, as reported by the Herald Scotsman. Delta Airlines remains committed to cooperating with the investigation and resolving the situation effectively.