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Drunk Driver Tries to Board Planes at Daytona Airport
58-year-old man arrested after driving onto runway and attempting to board occupied aircraft
Mar. 26, 2026 at 9:56pm
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A 58-year-old man named Bryan Parker was arrested at Daytona Beach International Airport after driving his car through a gate, nearly striking a taxiing plane, and attempting to board multiple occupied aircraft while highly intoxicated. Parker claimed he had recently attended an AA meeting but then started drinking, using cocaine, and smoking marijuana.
Why it matters
The incident raises concerns about airport security and the ability of intoxicated individuals to potentially access restricted areas and board planes, posing a serious threat to public safety. It also highlights the ongoing challenges of substance abuse and the need for better mental health and addiction support services.
The details
According to the Volusia County Sheriff's Office, Parker entered the airport's runway in his blue Ford Mustang around 4:25 pm and nearly struck a plane being used by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He then tried to board an occupied, running airplane but was unable to because the plane was locked. Parker then ran to another airplane, but an airport operations technician chased him, pulled him out, and sat him on a truck's tailgate. Parker then jumped off the tailgate and ran toward another plane before security was able to stop and arrest him.
- The incident occurred around 4:25 pm on Wednesday, March 26, 2026.
The players
Bryan Parker
A 58-year-old man who was arrested at Daytona Beach International Airport for driving onto the runway and attempting to board multiple occupied aircraft while highly intoxicated.
Volusia County Sheriff's Office
The law enforcement agency that responded to and investigated the incident at the Daytona Beach airport.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
The university whose plane was nearly struck by Parker's vehicle as it was taxiing on the runway.
What they’re saying
“I went to an AA meeting, and next thing I know, I'm doing cocaine, drinking and smoking pot.”
— Bryan Parker
“I'm lucky I didn't get on my ... motorcycle.”
— Bryan Parker
What’s next
Parker was booked into the Volusia County Branch Jail and charged with a range of offenses, including attempted aircraft piracy, burglary, trespass, and DUI. The judge will determine whether to grant him bail at a hearing on Tuesday.
The takeaway
This incident highlights the serious risks posed by intoxicated individuals gaining access to restricted airport areas and attempting to board aircraft. It underscores the need for robust airport security measures and better support services to address substance abuse issues in the community.
