Spokesman Patrick Hogan says witnesses alerted airport police that the pilot smelled like alcohol before he boarded the plane. Hogan says the pilot was conducting preflight checks about 6:30 a.m. Friday when officers boarded, conducted a Breathalyzer test and arrested him on suspicion of being under the influence of alcohol.
Passengers had not yet boarded the flight to La Guardia, New York City.
American Eagle is owned by American Airlines.
American Airlines spokesman Matt Miller says the pilot has been suspended pending an investigation. Miller says the airline is cooperating with authorities.
Hogan says the pilot was taken to a hospital for a blood test.
