What is the recommended stance on alcohol use for aircrew prior to flying?

• A. Moderate use acceptable
• B. Abstinence recommended
• C. Only after fueling time
• D. No effect on flight safety

Answer: (B)

Alcohol affects how you think and move, and in the cockpit that difference can be critical. Even small amounts can dull judgment, slow reaction times, degrade memory, and reduce situational awareness. Sleep can be disturbed by alcohol, leaving you fatigued, and the flight environment—altitude, cabin pressure, dehydration, and circadian disruption—can magnify these impairments. For aircrew, maintaining peak cognitive and motor performance is essential for handling normal operations and unexpected emergencies, so not drinking before flying helps ensure you’re fully ready to perform. That’s why abstinence before flight is recommended and aligns with safety expectations, rather than relying on any amount of alcohol to be acceptable.