Alcoholism and treatment in airline aviators: one company's results

Airline transport pilots are at risk for alcoholism, although prevalence statistics are not known. (Alcoholism is used to mean alcohol dependence as defined in DSM-III-R.) Whether their prevalence of alcoholism is consistent with that of the general population's, less, or possibly enhanced by psychological vulnerabilities, is considered. However, the development and implementation of this job-based, peer-oriented alcohol treatment can be an asset to pilot career progression and airline pilot retention. According to a retrospective analysis of identified aviators, 87% of alcoholic pilots of this major airline returned to flight duties after substance abuse treatment. Relapse occurred in 13% of those accepting treatment. Early identification and treatment of the substance-abusing aviator can be enhanced by encouraging teamwork between pilots, union, airline management, flight surgeons, and employee assistance program professionals.