Has Been Accused Of Flying An Airliner Under The Influence

A former pilot for Alaska Airlines has pleaded not guilty to charges of operating an airliner while under the influence of alcohol, a charge that carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison.

The pilot, 60-year-old David Arntson, is accused of flying from San Diego International Airport (KSAN) to Portland International Airport (KPDX) in Oregon, and then to John Wayne Airport (KSNA) in Orange County, CA while under the influence of alcohol on June 20, 2014.

Arntson was selected for a random drug test after landing at KSNA. Two separate tests found his blood-alcohol level of 0.134 percent and 0.142 percent. A person operating a commercial airliner is considered to be "under the influence" with a blood-alcohol level of 0.10 percent or above.

Fortune online reports that according to a criminal complaint filed by prosecutors last month, Arntson commented to his co-pilot "I bet it's for me" when he saw the drug tester at KSNA.

Arntson was removed from duty by Alaska Airline, and the carrier said he refused to submit to an investigatory interview. In a statement last month, the airline said he had left the company "before we were able to complete an investigation that would have led to his termination."

His reason for leaving the airline was not disclosed.

(Image from file)

FMI: www.justice.gov/usao-cdca