The transportation authority stated that James Clifton (52), was taken into custody and could face federal charges.
Clifton was going through Buffalo Airport security when a TSA agent noticed that he had “may have been impaired”. Clifton was then removed from the Fort Lauderdale-bound plane by the agent who contacted police. Authorities said that he had a blood alcohol level of 0.17, more than twice the legal limit. According to the FAA brochure, pilots are not allowed to fly if they have a blood alcohol level of.04 or.
According to the statement, the Orlando man was taken into custody.
JetBlue stated in a statement it was aware of the incident, and that it is cooperating with law enforcement. It is also conducting its own internal investigation. JetBlue stated that the individual involved was “removed from his duties.”
