Alcohol Regulations For Private Pilots

Just as there are rules and regulations about driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, there are also rules and regulations regarding pilots flying while under the influence or within eight hours of consuming alcohol. Private pilots are issued a pilot's certificate by the FAA and must abide by FAA rules and regulations the same as professional pilots for any airline. Many private pilots are unclear about these regulations so we will examine these regulations in hopes of answering any questions you may have concerning these your responsibilities and FAA regulations.

In the event you are suspected of being under the influence and test above the legal limit, which for pilots is between .02 and .04 depending on the level of your license, your airman's certificate will be revoked. If this happens you may not reapply for a new certificate for a period of one full year. Then you will be required to take and pass all tests required for each certificate and rating you may have held. Should you be drinking while not flying, you are required by FAA regulations to wait at least eight hours before flying. The same revocation of your certificate can occur should you be tested by a law enforcement officer and your level found in violation of FAA limits.

Although private pilots do not generally carry passengers or merchandise when they fly they are still bound by the FAA regulations regarding alcohol. You are not, at any time, considered to be on call for any reason but you are still liable for your actions within eight hours of piloting an aircraft of any type including balloons, airships and gliders. These three types of aircraft do not require a pilot's license but still must follow FAA rules and regulations.

A refusal to submit to an alcohol test when requested can lead to your certificate being revoked. An alcohol test may be requested under many circumstances such as post-accident, reasonable-suspicion and follow up. Any time the FAA deems it necessary to test a pilot they can request the pilot to submit to a test. State laws differ in connection to alcohol related incidents and a pilot is bound by the laws of the state they are in whether they are travelling there or live there. In the event you are requested by a law enforcement officer to submit to an alcohol test and you refuse, it can lead to your pilot's certificate being revoked.

The FAA has implemented stricter regulations regarding flying while under the influence as well as harsher penalties due to certain incidents that have occurred in recent years. Flying while under the influence not only endangers you but others on the ground as well. Airplane fuel is very volatile and can create a large explosion upon an impact. It is therefore important that you follow all FAA regulations regarding alcohol consumption while piloting any aircraft. For a full rundown of FAA regulations, contact your local FAA office or contact a local flight school.