Operation Take Off launched to stop post flight drink drivers

Operation Take Off was rolled out at Teesside International Airport this week, with officers stopping drivers arriving home from trips abroad to ensure they were not driving under the influence.

The campaign aims to make travellers think twice about driving under the influence, ultimately reducing fatalities across the County Durham and Darlington area.

Durham Police launched Operation Take Off following the devastating loss of baby Zackary Blades and his aunt Karlene Warner who were killed on their way home from Newcastle International Airport, in May 2024.

Zackary Blades, left, and Karlene Warner who were killed by drink driver on A1(M) in County Durham in May 2024 (Image: Durham Constabulary)

Their killer, Darryl Anderson, had also landed at the airport and selfishly decided to get behind the wheel even though he was nearly three times over the drink drive limit making his way back to his home in South Yorkshire.

Darryl Anderson, 38, from South Yorkshire, jailed for more than 17 years for two counts of causing death by dangerous driving (Image: Durham Constabulary)

Officers have been conducting Operation Take Off in the years since, in a bid to spread awareness, educate drivers and prevent further fatalities.

Detective Constable Natalie Horner, of the force’s Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Despite his horrendous actions, Anderson told officers during his arrest that he was ‘not a bad guy’ and that ‘mistakes happen’.

“We disagree.

“There is no excuse for driving under the influence and we will continue to carry out these important operations in memory of Zackary and Karlene whose deaths were completely avoidable.

“Their families continue to live with the pain of losing their loved ones which is why we will continue to do everything in our power to help prevent this happening again.

“Thankfully everyone who was stopped this morning and passed the breathalyser test.

“We want to thank them for doing their bit to keep other road users safe.”

She added: “Remember, don’t fly, drink, then drive.”

Anderson, 38, was jailed for 17 years and three months after admitting two county of causing death by dangerous driving at Durham Crown Court, in July 2024.