Would-Be Driver Blew 0.14 When Pulled from Flight Deck

A Jetblue pilot was pulled from the cockpit just before takeoff, said a Niagara Falls Transportation Authority presser. 

A TSA officer noticed the pilot's inebriated appearance, and brought the matter to police attention. The 52-year old pilot blew a o.17 on a breathalyzer test, a fair measure beyond the 0.04 limit for pilots. He was removed from the flight and tendered to JetBlue security, expected to face federal charges as well. He maintained that he had not drunk the day of the flight, but had "7 or 8 drinks" the night before. The fiasco took place in full view of passengers, who had already boarded for flight. 

After his removal, the flight took more than 4 hours before taking off with a replacement crew. The incident drew attention from the number of witnesses present to watch the drama unfold, as well as the universal condemnation of a pilot reflecting poorly on the industry as a whole. The FAA has noticed the incident and have promised their own investigation which will likely result in serious penalties should he be found at fault. Jetblue announced that he was relieved of his duties almost immediately, in accordance with their zero tolerance policies. 

FMI: www.jetblue.com