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A British Airways pilot has been charged after allegedly attempting to fly a 300-passenger flight while four times over the drink-fly alcohol limit.

Julian Monaghan was escorted off the Boeing 777 at Gatwick Airport, in Sussex, on January 18.

The 49-year-old, who no longer works for the airline, was arrested in front of "open-mouthed" holidaymakers en route to Mauritius after concerned stewards called 999.

Monaghan is charged with having 86mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood in his system. The legal limit is 20mg.

First officers at the airline typically earn more than £60,000.

(Image: Getty Images Europe)

One passenger on board BA flight 2063 told the Daily Mail: "Police rushed on to the plane and headed straight for the cockpit.

"The first officer was cuffed and led away. A number of passengers were open-mouthed. It's terrifying to think what might've happened."

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Monaghan, who divides his time between South Africa and Harmondsworth, West London, joined British Airways in 2001.

He was led off the plane in handcuffs, delaying the flight's departure by more than two hours.

The 49-year-old is due to appear at Crawley Magistrates' Court, in Sussex, on June 6.

He has not yet been asked to enter a plea.

(Image: PA)

Sussex Police said: "The Crown Prosecution Service has authorised a charge of being over the alcohol limit on board an aircraft against a former pilot.

"Julian Monaghan, 49, a resident of South Africa, was arrested at Gatwick Airport’s North Terminal at about 8.45pm on Thursday January 18 on suspicion of performing an aviation function when the level of alcohol was over the prescribed limit.

"He is charged with having 86mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood in his system. The legal limit is 20mg.

"Monaghan is due to appear at Crawley Magistrates’ Court on 6 June."

British Airways said it was assisting police and that Monaghan no longer works for them.

A British Airways spokesman said: "We have taken this matter extremely seriously, and will continue to assist the police with their inquiries.

"The safety and security of our customers and crew is always our top priority.

"Julian Monaghan no longer works for the airline."