Officers from Durham Roads and Armed policing unit headed to Teesside International Airport earlier this week to speak to drivers landing home and taking to the roads as part of Operation Take Off.
Operation Take Off sees officers from the unit stopping and breathalysing motorists attempting to drive home after their flight.
However, the stops aren’t just about catching drivers out, it’s also a chance for officers to educate people about the risks of having ‘just one’ and getting behind the wheel.
The campaign hopes to make travellers think twice about driving under the influence and reduce fatalities across County Durham and Darlington.
It follows the devastating loss of baby Zackary Blades and his aunt Karlene Warner who were killed on their way home to Ferryhill from the airport in May, 2024.
Their killer, Darryl Anderson, had also landed at the airport and selfishly decided to get behind the wheel despite being nearly three times over the drink drive limit.
Out of 105 people breathalysed at the airport on Monday (July 28), 104 had zero alcohol in their breath.
One driver, who was below the legal limit, received a warning after admitting to one glass of wine on the plane.
Officers were also shocked to see an occupant inside one vehicle they stopped holding a baby on their knee and not in a child seat.
This driver received a penalty notice and action was taken to ensure the child’s safety.
Inspector Simon Hogg said: “It is never ok to drive under the influence.
“Please don’t be tempted to have some last-minute holiday beers or spirits and drink on the plane if you will be driving home from the airport – life is too precious.”
Officers will be carrying out similar operations at other airports over the summer months. The message from them is simple: Don’t fly, drink, then drive.
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
