I've never seen a big jet so out of control!

[simondix]

Since these guys got down safely, I hope that noone will begrudge me in seeing the lighter side and imagine them passing a bottle of vodka around the cockpit and singing "Katjusha"

?

From what is known about Aeroflot and Russian flying the cause was possibly passing round the Vodka bottle before and during the flight. I think you may have hit the nail on the head. I remember seeing a documentary on Russian Airline Pilots and they showed the Aeroflot toast. They hold the glass and the hands touch and not the glass so it is silent. So no one can hear them drinking in the hotel rooms or I suppose cockpits.

[TobyV]

http://rt.com/politics/press/izvestiya/ ... dionov/en/

If this is true and relating to the correct incident, then I cannot question the skill, only the sanity of people who would take an aircraft up thats in the condition described! The description of the pilot's behaviour is remarkably similar to accounts of John Derry's flying (and driving) escapades, who's biography I am currently reading. Amazing how some people keep their cool, I am convinced that is an overriding factor in surviving such situations. The only point is, sometimes is it not wiser simply not to put yourself in such a situation?

[VEGAS]

Joking aside. Drunken pilots is no laughing matter. It happens on our shores too!

Like many drunk drivers, a lot of those that are caught are usually discovered the next day.

No visable signs of intoxication in the morning. Just a bad head and smelling like a brewery.

During my stint at Manchester I recall a crew of which the aircraft/airline shall remain annonymous that were arrested prior to departure following a tip off from airside staff as their behaviour gave cause for concern.

They had been on the lash the night before and gotten bladdered. They were due to fly in a matter of hours and naturally the alcohol was still in their system.

Arrested & Charged. But by the grace of god they narrowly avoided a prison sentence. But needless to say they aint ever flying in the front seats again.

[nigelb]

Yaw quite right Nigel

I'll set them up, you close in for the kill! At least until someone puts a damper on it.

Gary, I just love your puns! Make sure you note that is spelt with a 'p'.

Nigel²

[Garry Russell]

Gary, I just love your puns! Make sure you note that is spelt with a 'p'.

Nigel²

Noted with relief