Pilots may soon be advised to avoid using products like perfume, mouthwash, and tooth gel with alcoholic content to prevent positive breath analyzer tests. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has proposed this advisory as part of a draft Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR), which outlines procedures for the medical examination of aircraft personnel for alcohol consumption.
The DGCA has sought comments on the draft CAR, which includes the proposed advisory, until October 5. The draft CAR pertains to the procedure for the medical examination of aircraft personnel for alcohol consumption and outlines guidelines for breath analyzer tests.
Under the existing DGCA norms, all flight crew members and cabin crew members of scheduled operators are required to undergo pre-flight breath analyzer examinations at the first departure airport during a flight duty period. For scheduled flights originating from destinations outside India, post-flight breath analyzer examinations are conducted for each flight crew and cabin crew at the first port of landing in India.
The proposed advisory in the draft CAR states that no crew member should consume any drug, formulation, or use any substance, including mouthwash, tooth gel, or perfume, that has alcoholic content. It notes that such substances may result in a positive breath analyzer test. Crew members who are undergoing medication that may contain alcohol are advised to consult with the company doctor before undertaking a flying assignment.
While the proposed advisory aims to prevent false positive breath analyzer test results, some in the aviation industry suggest that it should remain advisory rather than being incorporated into regulations. They believe that too many restrictions on pilots may not be ideal and that it is essential to strike a balance between ensuring safety and not overly burdening pilots with regulations.
Breath analyzer tests for alcohol consumption are a critical safety measure in the aviation industry. Stringent punishments are in place for crew members who test positive in such tests, depending on whether the violation is repetitive. These penalties apply to both pre-flight and post-flight tests.
The draft CAR also includes provisions for the availability of breath analyzer equipment. Operators are required to have at least two serviceable breath analyzer devices that use fuel cell technology and can provide accurate digital values up to three decimal places. These devices must have memory capabilities to store and recall at least the last 1,000 records.
The aviation industry prioritizes safety and takes measures to ensure that flight crews and cabin crews are fit to operate aircraft. Alcohol consumption by aviation personnel is strictly regulated and monitored, and any violation of these regulations can result in serious consequences, including suspension or termination of employment.
The DGCA’s proposal to advise pilots to avoid alcoholic-containing products like mouthwash and perfume is part of ongoing efforts to enhance safety measures and prevent false positives in breath analyzer tests, ultimately ensuring the safety of air travel.