A British Airways flight attendant's career has hit catastrophic turbulence after an alcohol-fuelled incident that saw her attempt to board a plane following a dramatic 100mph police chase through the streets near Glasgow Airport.
Caroline Maureen O’Neill, 47, faces a potential prison sentence after her shocking behaviour on March 16th, which culminated in her trying to access her aircraft while more than four times over the legal alcohol limit for flying.
The High-Speed Chase
The drama began when police spotted O'Neill's Volkswagen Tiguan being driven erratically on the M8 motorway. What followed was a terrifying high-speed pursuit, with O'Neill reaching speeds of 100mph in a desperate attempt to evade officers.
Prosecutor Liam Haggart revealed to Glasgow Sheriff Court: "Police observed the accused's vehicle being driven at speed and changing lanes without indication. Officers followed with blue lights and sirens activated, but the accused failed to stop."
Airport Terminal Chaos
After finally being stopped at the airport, O'Neill's behaviour became increasingly bizarre. She abandoned her vehicle and made a frantic dash through the terminal, still determined to reach her flight.
"The accused exited her vehicle and ran into the terminal building," Haggart continued. "She attempted to gain access to the security area and ultimately her aircraft."
Security staff quickly intervened, preventing the intoxicated crew member from reaching the secured airside area of the airport.
Shocking Alcohol Levels
When finally apprehended, breath tests revealed the staggering extent of O'Neill's intoxication. She recorded 94 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath - more than four times the legal limit for airline staff of 22 micrograms.
The legal driving limit in Scotland is also 22 micrograms, making her reading equally shocking for someone behind the wheel.
Career in Jeopardy
O'Neill, from Ayr, South Ayrshire, pleaded guilty to charges of driving dangerously, failing to stop for police, and driving with excessive alcohol levels. Defence lawyer John McLaughlin acknowledged the severity of the situation, stating: "She is under no illusion as to how serious this is."
Sheriff Andrew McIntyre has deferred sentencing until next month, warning O'Neill that all options, including custody, remain open. The flight attendant has been released on bail but now faces an anxious wait to learn her fate.
This incident raises serious questions about alcohol abuse among aviation staff and the protocols in place to prevent such dangerous situations from occurring.
