Alcohol and other drugs in aircraft accidents

During the 12-year period from 1962 through 1973, there were 89 USAF aircraft accidents or incidents in which alcohol and/or other drugs were mentioned as being in some way associated with the mishap. A review of these indicates a relatively constant level of occurrence each year, with no indication that such accidents are increasing. Alcohol was by far the most prominent drug mentioned. A great variety of over-the-counter and prescription preparations were cited. There were no instances in which illicit narcotics were involved. Analysis indicates that the relationship was, in most instances, associative and not causative. In some instances, the background disease for which the medication was being taken was far more probable as a cause agency. The need for better documentation and greater cooperation between the flight surgeons and pathologists was indicated.