American Airlines co-pilot detained after suspected of being drunk

ROMULUS, Mich. (FOX 11 / AP) - Federal authorities say an American Airlines co-pilot has been detained at Detroit Metropolitan Airport after he was suspected of being drunk.

The Federal Aviation Administration said the co-pilot was held from a Saturday morning flight from Detroit to Philadelphia. He's suspected of having a blood-alcohol level above the legal limit.

The pilot was detained after arriving at the suburban Detroit airport. Airport spokesman Michael Conway says the pilot has been released as authorities determine whether charges will be filed.

Conway says the pilot is in his early 50s and from Pennsylvania. Officials wouldn't release more information.

American Airlines spokeswoman Laura Nedbal said in a statement the flight was cancelled and customers are taking other flights.

Airline officials declined to discuss the co-pilot, but say they are assisting investigators.