Allegedly Drunk Pilot Released from Jail
A Virgin Atlantic Airways pilot accused of showing up drunk to fly a plane from Washington to London was released from jail after posting $25,000 bond and surrendering his passport.
Richard G. Harwell refused to talk to reporters while leaving the jail in Leesburg, Va., about 40 miles west of Washington.
The 55-year-old pilot faces a charge of attempting to operate an aircraft while under the influence of an intoxicating drug or alcohol.
If convicted of the felony, Harwell could face a maximum five years in prison and $2,500 fine.
Harwell, a 14-year veteran with Virgin Atlantic, has been suspended with pay. The air carrier said Harwell is a United States citizen who lives in London.
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