Europe British Airways Pilot Suspended for Leaving Cockpit Door Open

The Digest:

A British Airways pilot has been suspended after leaving the cockpit door open during a flight from Heathrow to JFK. The pilot allegedly wanted his family to see him operate the controls, but the situation alarmed passengers.

Key Points:

• The cockpit door was left open for a significant period, causing unease among passengers.
• Crew members reported the incident, leading to the pilot’s suspension.
• The Civil Aviation Authority launched an urgent investigation into the breach.
• The flight's return was cancelled after the incident, but passengers were accommodated on alternative flights.
• Pilots are required to keep cockpit doors closed and locked to prevent unauthorized access, a safety measure introduced post-9/11.

The pilot returned to flying after the investigation concluded that no security threat was posed, but the incident raised concerns over security protocols.