Drugs & Alcohol

Alcohol and Drugs

Alcohol and drugs significantly impair the body’s efficiency and cognitive abilities, posing severe risks to aviation safety. Pilots must make numerous decisions under time constraints during flight. The influence of alcohol and drugs can drastically reduce their capability to make correct decisions, jeopardizing flight safety

Effects of Alcohol on Pilots

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, much like general anesthetics, but consumed in lower doses. Even small amounts can impair judgment, coordination, memory, and reaction time. Visual and auditory perception can also be compromised. Studies show that alcohol diminishes decision-making abilities and reduces the ability to manage complex tasks.

• Delayed Reaction Time: Alcohol slows reflexes and hinders muscle coordination.

• Reduced Cognitive Function: Decision-making, reasoning, and multitasking capabilities are impaired.

• Impaired Vision: Eye movement efficiency and visual perception are diminished.

• Decreased Situational Awareness: Alcohol consumption often lowers situational awareness and risk perception.

The effects of alcohol are amplified at altitude due to reduced oxygen levels, inducing a form of hypoxia. Even two drinks on the ground can have the effect of consuming three or four drinks at altitude.

FAA Regulations on Alcohol

According to 14 CFR Part 91.17, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandates the following regulations concerning alcohol consumption:

• Pilots are prohibited from flying within 8 hours of consuming alcohol (commonly referred to as the “8-hour bottle to throttle” rule).

• A pilot’s blood alcohol content (BAC) must be below 0.04% to legally operate an aircraft.

• Pilots may not fly while under the influence of alcohol or any substance that impairs their abilities.

Note: A hangover can still impair cognitive and physical performance, even if the BAC is below the legal limit.

Figure 1 Impairment scale with alcohol use (Pilots Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge)

Effects of Drugs on Pilots

The use of drugs, including both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications, can adversely affect a pilot's ability to operate an aircraft. Even medications that are seemingly harmless on the ground can have intensified effects at altitude.

Categories of Drugs and Their Effects

1. Stimulants: (e.g., caffeine, nicotine, amphetamines)

   • May temporarily increase alertness but lead to anxiety, mood swings, and reduced coordination.

2. Depressants: (e.g., tranquilizers, sedatives, alcohol)

   • Slow down brain activity, reducing cognitive abilities, coordination, and reaction time.

3. Antihistamines: (e.g., diphenhydramine, found in allergy medications)

   • Cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired cognitive function.

4. Painkillers:

   • OTC Analgesics (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen) generally pose minimal risk.

   • Prescription Opioids (e.g., codeine, oxycodone) are disqualifying due to sedation and cognitive effects.

5. Illegal Drugs:

   • Substances such as marijuana, cocaine, and LSD cause severe impairment and are strictly prohibited.

FAA Regulations on Drug Use

According to 14 CFR Part 61.53 and Part 91.17:

• Pilots must not operate an aircraft while using any medication that may impair their ability to fly safely.

• Use of medications that cause drowsiness, dizziness, or other adverse effects is prohibited.

• Pilots should consult with an FAA-designated Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) before taking any medications.

Preventative Measures for Pilots

To minimize risks associated with alcohol and drug use, pilots should follow these guidelines:

• Abstain from Alcohol and Drugs: Comply with FAA regulations and avoid alcohol or impairing drugs before and during flight.

• Understand Medication Effects: Consult a healthcare provider or AME before using any new medication.

• Monitor Hangover Symptoms: Ensure full cognitive and physical recovery before flying.

• Stay Hydrated and Rested: Fatigue and dehydration can exacerbate the effects of alcohol and medications.

• Follow the IMSAFE Checklist: Evaluate physical and mental fitness using the IMSAFE mnemonic (Illness, Medication, Stress, Alcohol, Fatigue, Emotion).

Figure 2 Adverse affects of various drugs (Pilots Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge)

The responsible management of alcohol and medication use is essential for ensuring flight safety. Pilots must adhere to FAA regulations, make informed decisions regarding their health, and remain vigilant about the effects of substances on their performance. Maintaining a clear mind and sound judgment is critical for the safety of the flight crew, passengers, and others in the aviation environment.