Drunk pilot almost got to controls

The flight was delayed with many passengers even getting wind of what had happened. Some complained to officials on reaching Kolkata.

Alliance Air managing director Menet Paes said action would be taken against Kapoor after detailed investigation. 8216;8216;We are aware of what has happened and will be investigating the matter before taking action. However, the pilot has been removed from flying duties till investigations are completed,8217;8217; Paes said.

The 8216;8216;serious negligence8217;8217; on the pilot8217;s part, sources said, has cast doubts on the pre-flight medical checks carried out by Alliance Air. Since it is mandatory for every crew member to undergo a thorough medical check-up before boarding the plane, Alliance Air will need to explain how Kapoor was cleared for flying.

It8217;s learnt that Alliance Air has been asked by the Ministry of Civil Aviation to fully investigate the matter and tighten its system of pre-flight medical check-ups. 8216;8216;New Year8217;s Day or no New Year8217;s Day, this kind of laxity cannot be tolerated. After all, the lives of more than 100 passengers was at stake here,8217;8217; said a senior Ministry official.