More than 100 passengers were stranded in southwestern Germany after their flight was cancelled at the last minute because the co-pilot was found drunk.
The flight was grounded shortly before take-off after an employee noticed the co-pilot was walking unsteadily and smelled of alcohol, reports the Guardian.
TAP Air Portugal has apologised for the cancellation, citing the “pilot’s incapacity” as the reason.
Hello Luis. The flight TP523 from Stuttgart to Lisbon on 23 March, operated by Portugália, was canceled due to the pilot's incapacity: TAP Air Portugal will go through an internal investigation process and act accordingly, taking the necessary and consequent measures.
— TAP Air Portugal (@tapairportugal) March 24, 2018
Police found the man in a “highly intoxicated condition” and Stuttgart prosecutors immediately suspended the copilot’s flying licence and set bail at €10,000 (about $16,000 aud) reports the Guardian.
The cancelled flight was due to depart for Lisbon on Friday night but now passengers will have to wait until Monday to make the trip.
A German news agency has reported that all 106 passengers were put up in hotels overnight.
