London  - A pilot for United Airlines was arrested in his cockpit shortly before take-off from London's Heathrow Airport on Sunday for alleged drunkenness.

Airport police said they received a tip from the ground crew and forced the 44-year-old pilot to take a breathalyser test. After the test, the pilot was escorted from the plane.

A police spokesman confirmed on Monday that the test had been performed, but would not discuss its results.

The airline has suspended the pilot from all duties until the investigation is completed. Departure of the flight, United Airlines 995 to San Francisco, was delayed several hours. (dpa)