An American Airlines pilot has been arrested at Manchester Airport on suspicion of performing an aviation function when over the prescribed limit of alcohol.

The 62-year-old man was detained just before 11am on Thursday after concerns were raised to police.

He has since been bailed pending further enquiries, a GMP spokesman said.

The arrest was made on the American Airlines flight AA735 to Philadelphia.

The flight was due to depart at 11.05am but was subsequently cancelled.

All passengers were rebooked onto a different flight.

A GMP spokeswoman said: "Shortly before 11am today, police received a report that an airline pilot may have been under the influence of alcohol at Manchester Airport.

"Officers attended and a 62-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of performing an aviation function when over the prescribed limit of alcohol.

"He has since been bailed pending further enquiries."

(Image: Manchester Evening News)

An American Airlines spokeswoman said: "American Airlines is aware of an incident involving a member of its crew at Manchester Airport earlier this morning.

"The employee was detained and the flight, AA735 to Philadelphia, has been cancelled. Safety is our highest priority and we apologise to our customers for the disruption to their travel plans, we have rebooked them on alternative flights.

"We are fully cooperating with local law enforcement and further questions should be referred to them."