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4d ago

Operation Take Off Finds Only One Sub-Limit Driver at Teesside Airport

Following a Teesside pilot that breathalysed 105 motorists with only one found below the legal limit, Durham Police will expand checkpoints to other regional airports this summer.

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Overview

  • Durham Police stopped 105 drivers at Teesside Airport on July 28 under Operation Take Off, issuing a warning to the sole motorist with trace alcohol below the legal threshold.
  • Earlier checks at Newcastle Airport on July 24 screened 80 drivers and found none over the limit and two with trace alcohol in their breath.
  • The force plans to roll out similar breathalyser operations at additional North East airports throughout the summer peak travel period.
  • Operation Take Off was launched in December 2024 in response to a May 2024 crash by a drink-driver that killed eight-month-old Zackary Blades and his aunt after landing at Newcastle Airport.
  • Zackary’s mother, Sharlorna Warner, has intensified her Justice for Zackary Blades and Karlene Warner campaign calling for lifetime bans on motorists convicted of drink-driving.