(CNN) — The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating a Denver air traffic controller for “the possibility of” working while intoxicated.
During a routine, random test, the veteran controller was found to have a blood alcohol level exceeding the allowed limit, the FAA said Tuesday.
“The controller in question is not working air traffic,” said FAA spokeswoman Sasha Johnson. “We are investigating the incident.”
CNN affiliate KMGH reported that the test took place July 5, when the controller was more than six hours into his 8-hour shift.
A family member told KMGH that the controller was given a choice to either resign or enter a rehabilitation program, and that he chose rehab.
Since no aircraft incidents were involved, the controller has not been charged with a federal crime, KMGH reported, adding that the controller could eventually return to his job.
CNN’s Mike Ahlers contributed to this report.
The-CNN-Wire/Atlanta/+1-404-827-WIRE(9473)
™ & © 2011 Cable News Network, Inc., a Time Warner Company. All rights reserved.
