Captain Removed From Cockpit In Sioux Falls

In a move that could result in administrative action, the FAA has launched its own investigation into allegations a Skywest Captain attempted to fly after consuming alcohol.

FAA Spokeswoman Elizabeth Isham Cory told the Salt Lake Tribune Tuesday, ""We have an open investigation, and we are currently awaiting more information from SkyWest, including a Breathalyzer analysis and some other information."

As ANN reported last week, the CRJ 200 captain was removed from the aircraft in Sioux Falls just minutes before the flight was scheduled to depart for Salt Lake with 21 pax. A security screener had smelled alcohol and notified local authorities.

SkyWest spokeswoman Sabrena Suite-Mangum said the captain has been suspended and "his status is currently under review." She says the St. George-based airline will not forward the captain's Breathalyzer results to the FAA because they did not exceed the agency's blood alcohol standard. She claimed she did not know what the Breathalyzer showed.

There is still no word on how the US Attorney's office in Sioux Falls intends to handle the incident -- no decision has been made regarding charges against the pilot. Office spokesman Mark Salter refused to say if the blood test taken the night of the incident had been completed.

FMI: www.skywest.com