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A former British Airways pilot, who was fired after using cocaine before a scheduled flight, has been rehired as a pilot.
The A380 pilot, who was dismissed following the high-profile incident, has now secured a new job at European Cargo, a cargo airline based in Bournemouth. His return to the cockpit has sparked controversy within the aviation industry.
The pilot in question, Mike Beaton, was fired by British Airways in 2023 after admitting to using drugs before a flight. The incident occurred in Johannesburg, South Africa, where Beaton spent an evening with local acquaintances and tourists. He allegedly snorted cocaine off the body of a topless woman. Beaton later boasted about the experience to a British Airways colleague, who reported the incident to the airline. As a result, British Airways canceled the scheduled return flight to London. After Beaton tested positive for drugs, he was immediately dismissed and flown back to the UK.
Criticism
Despite the severity of the previous incident, Beaton has now secured a new position as a pilot at European Cargo. The airline confirmed that Beaton meets all Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) requirements, just like the rest of its pilots. The CAA, the UK’s aviation regulator, stated that medical clearance for a pilot is only granted when all safety regulations are met. However, his return to the cockpit has sparked controversy within the industry.
Although cases of drug or alcohol use among pilots are rare, this incident has reignited discussions about aviation safety protocols. An anonymous British Airways captain called substance use by pilots “unthinkable”, stating that it seriously damages the professional integrity of the sector.