Can You Smoke Weed as a Pilot?
As a pilot, you are expected to uphold the highest standards of safety and professionalism in the skies. But, can you also indulge in marijuana, the most widely used illegal substance in the world? The answer is a clear no.
Recreational Use vs. Professional Responsibility
Recreational marijuana use has become legal in many parts of the world, including Canada and some US states. However, as a pilot, you are expected to follow strict regulations and guidelines, including those related to substance use. The Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI), the international governing body for aeronautics, states that "the use of drugs is strictly prohibited for pilots and other crew members". This includes not only prescription drugs but also recreational drugs like marijuana.
FAR Part 91 Requirements
In the United States, the Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) require pilots to report any controlled substance use within the last 3 months. FAR Part 91.17 states that "no certificate holder may operate an aircraft in air commerce while a crewmember has a reasonable basis to believe that his or her body contains alcohol in excess of the alcohol concentration specified in 14 CFR 93.217". Similarly, for controlled substances, FAR 91.17 states that "no certificate holder may operate an aircraft in air commerce while a crewmember has a reasonable basis to believe that his or her body contains a controlled substance in excess of the approved therapeutic dose or a level that impairs the safety of the flight". Marijuana is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law.
Why Marijuana Can Impair a Pilot’s Ability to Fly
So, why can’t a pilot smoke weed? Marijuana can impair a pilot’s ability to fly in several ways:
- Coordination and judgment: THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana, can alter a pilot’s coordination, judgment, and reaction time, making it difficult to operate an aircraft safely.
- Perception: Marijuana can alter a pilot’s perception, making it difficult to focus on instrument readings, recognize visual landmarks, and navigate through changes in weather.
- Cognitive impairment: THC can impair a pilot’s short-term memory, attention span, and ability to problem-solve, making it difficult to handle emergency situations.
- Impaired motor skills: Marijuana can slow down a pilot’s motor skills, making it difficult to manipulate controls and respond quickly to changing conditions.
The Consequences of Getting Caught
If a pilot is found to be impaired by drugs, including marijuana, there can be serious consequences, including:
- Loss of pilot’s license or certification
- Fines and penalties
- Revocation of aircraft operating permits
- Liability for damages or injuries resulting from the flight
- Damage to the pilot’s reputation and career
Conclusion
In conclusion, can you smoke weed as a pilot? No, absolutely not. As a pilot, you have a responsibility to ensure the safety of yourself, your passengers, and the aircraft you operate. Marijuana use can impair your ability to fly, and violating federal regulations can have severe consequences. It is essential to remember that as a pilot, you are an ambassador of aviation, and your actions both on and off the job reflect not only on yourself but on the entire aviation community.
