A Southwest Airlines pilot was arrested for allegedly driving under the influence before a scheduled flight from Savannah, Georgia, to Chicago. The incident unfolded on Wednesday morning and left passengers scrambling for alternative travel plans.
The pilot, identified as 52-year-old David Paul Allsop, was taken into custody by the Savannah Airport Police Department around 7 a.m. He faces charges for driving under the influence, with his bond set at $3,500, according to arrest records.
Southwest Airlines later confirmed that Allsop was scheduled to operate Flight 3772 but described the situation as a “disruption.” The airline quickly reassured passengers, stating that their safety is the company’s top priority.
The spokesperson shared that Allsop has been “removed from duty” following the arrest. They also apologized to customers for the inconvenience and worked to accommodate them on other flights.
While specific details about Allsop’s blood alcohol level have not been disclosed, federal rules strictly prohibit pilots from performing their duties within eight hours of drinking alcohol or while under its influence.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of safety protocols in aviation. Passengers rely on airlines and their crew members to uphold the highest standards, and Southwest Airlines acted swiftly to address the matter and protect its customers.
