Sightseeing Helicopter Pilot Charged With Drunk Flying

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Key Takeaways:

  • A Naples, Florida helicopter pilot was arrested in Virginia for allegedly operating a Bell 206 L1 helicopter while under the influence of alcohol, giving rides at the Suffolk Peanut Festival.
  • Police were called after a family complained about erratic flying and smelling alcohol on the 50-year-old pilot's breath during a ride.
  • The pilot was taken into custody, the helicopter rides were shut down for the day, and he is currently being held without bail.
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A Naples, Fla., helicopter pilot is being held without bail in Virginia after police allege he was giving rides to families while under the influence of alcohol. Police were called to the Suffolk Peanut Festival after a family that had taken a ride with the 50-year-old pilot complained that he flew erratically and that they could smell alcohol on his breath. The family also said he muttered curses when he landed the Bell 206 L1 helicopter.

Police confronted the pilot and then shut the helicopter rides down for the day while they took him into custody. He was being held at the local jail awaiting an appearance before a judge.

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