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Passengers Stop Allegedly Drunk Pilot From Flying

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Jan 8, 2009 10:23 pm US/Central

Passengers Stop Allegedly Drunk Pilot From Flying

Reporting
Doug Dunbar
PORT COLUMBUS, Ohio (CBS 11 / TXA 21) ― A Southwest Airlines pilot based in Chicago will not be flying any passengers for the airline anytime soon. 

The pilot, identified as David P. Shook, was in an airport in Columbus, Ohio going through the security checkpoint this week when two passengers noticed something about him - his breath.

The passengers say it reeked of alcohol. Concerned, the passengers followed Shook, who ended up at the very same gate for an Orlando bound flight that the two men were about to fly.

One of the men, passenger Andy Maisner, said he and his friend decided to approach the pilot. His friend told Shook he smelled of alcohol, and if he has a drinking problem, he shouldn't be flying the plane.

The men say Shook didn't respond verbally; he simply turned and took off.

Airport authorities were contacted, and a short time later Shook was found. He was in an airport bathroom with new clothes on. He had changed from his uniform jacket and hat and told authorities he had just called in sick to the airline.

The officers did ask if he'd been drinking and he said no. But he admitted to "partying hard" the night before at the hotel.

Southwest Airlines placed Shook on paid leave, pending the outcome of an internal investigation.

(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

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