DALLAS– The file of a Southwest Airlines (WN) pilot arrested for alleged intoxication before operating an aircraft has been sent to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia, according to Chatham County District Attorney Director of Communications Katherine Wideman.
The pilot, identified as David Allsop, was taken into custody for DUI on January 15 at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) while preparing for a Southwest flight to Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), Savannah Now reported.
Photo: Aero Icarus | FlickrSouthwest Pilot Arrested, File Sent to US Attorney
According to a police report obtained from the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport Police Department, Allsop was seated in the cockpit conducting pre-flight checks when he was approached by officers.
When asked about his last drink, he stated “last night” and mentioned having “a few light beers,” initially claiming any odor was from nicotine pouches.
The report notes that Allsop’s eyes were bloodshot and watery, his complexion flushed, and his demeanor consistent with alcohol impairment. A field sobriety test was conducted on the jet bridge, which Allsop failed. He refused a blood test.
Shocking! Southwest Airlines pilot David Allsop allegedly removed from cockpit after smelling of alcohol. Arrested under DUI charges… flight canceled! Southwest acted fast, pulling him from duty. pic.twitter.com/l4gN1iKBzy
— Fahad Naim (@Fahadnaimb) August 14, 2025
Wideman’s statement confirmed the matter falls under federal jurisdiction because it involves Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and potential federal offenses.
Chatham County prosecutors have not pursued the case locally. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will handle the investigation and any potential prosecution. Wideman also emphasized that Allsop is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Photo: Aero Icarus | FlickrAirline and TSA Response
Southwest Airlines spokesperson Dan Landson confirmed Allsop is on administrative leave but provided no additional details.
TSA spokesperson Mark Howell stated that a Transportation Security Officer at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport detected signs of intoxication during crew screening and promptly alerted local law enforcement.
Howell highlighted that TSA maintains close cooperation with law enforcement agencies to address incidents that threaten transportation security.
“TSA always reminds passengers that if you see something, say something,” Howell said. “In this case, that vigilance helped ensure the safety of the traveling public.”
Photo: Tim | FlickrThe Challenge of Substance Abuse in Aviation
Substance abuse among pilots remains a sensitive and complex safety issue. Despite the existence of confidential programs intended to encourage pilots to seek help, many remain reluctant.
The fear of losing certification or being permanently grounded often outweighs the potential benefits of early intervention.
Experts note this reluctance is compounded by the fact that once a pilot discloses an alcohol or mental health problem, they are immediately considered a safety risk and removed from flying duties.
While the intent is to protect passengers and crew, the reality is that punitive consequences discourage openness and hinder early detection of such problems.
This incident underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing safety enforcement with providing an environment where pilots can report problems without fear of career-ending repercussions.
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