London: A Cathay airline pilot that is due to fly from 260 passengers from London to Hong Kong have been arrested at Heathrow airport for allegedly in possession of knives.
The 61 years old pilot flying a Boeing 777 was arrested during a flight crew search. The pilot has since been taken into custody in West London police station and bailed to return in May. The 260 passengers could not fly as there was no available relief crew.
A Metropolitan police spokesperson said that:
Officers attended and subsequently a member of the flight crew, a man, was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon in a public place and possession of knife blade / sharp pointed article in a public place.
The Heathrow CID is currently investigating the incident and is yet to pass the investigation to Scotland yard.
A spokesperson for Cathay airlines said :
Cathay Pacific can confirm that CX254 was delayed due to a crew-related incident concerning some items found in the pilot’s hand luggage.At no point were passengers or staff put at risk. Given timings, Cathay Pacific were unable to organise a relief crew and therefore passengers experienced an overnight delay. Cathay Pacific takes this very seriously and is liaising with the relevant authorities.
The airline assisted passengers with overnight accommodation and alternative flight arrangements.
The Boeing 777 flight departed at 14:47 BST on Sunday and arrived in Hong Kong at 09:31 BST on Monday