SkyWest Airlines Pilot at Helm of Delta flight, Arrested for Suspected Drunkeness

(CBS NEWS) A 38-year-old pilot was arrested in South Dakota on Wednesday morning under suspicion of operating a flight under the influence of alcohol, local police say.

Russel Duszak was taken into custody after TSA officers smelled alcohol on him and called local law enforcement, a Rapid City Police Department spokesperson told CBS News.

After an investigation, police said it was determined the pilot was in violation of the statute that prohibits flying with a blood-alcohol content of over .04.

Duszak, from Salt Lake City, was operating Delta Connection 4574 flight to his home town. He is a pilot for SkyWest Airlines, a regional airline that was operating for Delta.

Delta declined comment to CBS News, deferring to SkyWest. That airline said in a statement it is investigating and apologized for the delay, blaming it on a “crewmember issue.” 

Duszak has been placed on administrative leave and removed from flying duties.