A Flybe pilot was arrested on suspicion of drink-driving just moments before takeoff after a fellow crew member reported the 48-year-old to police.
The pilot had been due to fly from Newquay Airport in Cornwall to London Gatwick yesterday morning when he was held. The flight was then cancelled and passengers faced delays of up to five hours, with some missing connections.
A passenger on the flight told the BBC: "We all got on the plane and then there was an announcement. We were told the pilot was unwell."
For pilots, air crew and air traffic controllers the alcohol limit is 20mg per 100ml of blood. The drink drive limit in the UK for motorists is 80mg per 100ml of blood.
A Flybe turboprop aircraft similar to the model that operates from Newquay to London Gatwick
A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesman said: "A 48-year-old man from Crediton, Devon, was arrested on suspicion of being over the drink-drive limit.
"He was taken to Newquay police station. He has been released on police bail until December 8."
A Flybe spokesman said: "Flybe can confirm that one of its pilots volunteered to help the police with their inquiries at Newquay Airport yesterday.
"The airline is not able to comment further while the police investigation is taking place.
The pilot has been released on bail.