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Post-mortem blood alcohol in general aviation pilots
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine
|August 1, 1977
Summary
Blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) in fatal aviation accidents were reviewed. Alcohol was likely a factor in 9% of accidents with valid BACs, similar to other transportation modes.
Area of Science:
- Aviation Safety
- Toxicology
- Accident Investigation
Background:
- General aviation aircraft accidents have been studied to determine the role of alcohol.
- Previous research indicates alcohol impairment is a factor in transportation accidents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) in fatal general aviation accidents.
- To compare alcohol's role in aviation accidents with other transportation modes.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 250 consecutive fatal accidents from 1962-1975.
- Review of BAC data from 150 fatally injured pilots.
- Comparison of aviation accident data with national transportation statistics.
Main Results:
- Blood alcohol concentrations were obtained for 150 pilots.
- Positive BACs were found in 18% of estimations.
- Alcohol impairment was a probable factor in approximately 9% of accidents with valid BACs.
- Alcohol's contribution to fatal accidents is comparable across general aviation, cars, and motorcycles.
Conclusions:
- Alcohol plays a role in fatal general aviation accidents, at a rate similar to other transportation sectors.
- The prevalence of alcohol involvement in fatal aviation accidents is comparable to cars and motorcycles.
- Further research may be warranted to explore specific contributing factors in alcohol-related aviation incidents.