Passengers on a Southwest Airlines flight from Savannah to Chicago were stunned when their pilot was suddenly removed from the cockpit just before takeoff.
Bodycam footage released Thursday shows police officers confronting 52-year-old Captain David Allsop in January after TSA staff raised concerns that he might be intoxicated. Officers boarded the plane and escorted the pilot off, arresting him on suspicion of DUI.
According to officials, Allsop was taken into custody at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, preventing what could have been a major disaster. The flight was delayed while a replacement pilot was brought in.
Social media exploded once the footage surfaced:
- “Imagine finding out your pilot was about to fly drunk?!”
- “Thank God TSA and police stepped in.”
Investigators have not revealed what tipped off TSA officers, but Allsop is now facing serious charges. The incident has reignited debate about alcohol testing and airline safety protocols.