If your buddy appears intoxicated when you meet him for a flight, what should you do?

Choosing not to fly with someone who appears intoxicated is the appropriate action for several important reasons. First and foremost, operating an aircraft under the influence of alcohol or any substance that impairs judgment is illegal and violates Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. In a flight situation, the pilot must be in full control of their cognitive and physical abilities to ensure the safety of everyone on board and those on the ground.

Additionally, flying requires clear decision-making skills, quick reactions, and the ability to assess changing situations. Intoxication significantly compromises these abilities, leading to dangerous situations. If a pilot is under the influence, it increases the risk of accidents, and even a single flight can have serious consequences, including potential legal ramifications.

By refusing to fly with a buddy who appears intoxicated, you are prioritizing safety and adhering to legal standards governing aviation. Other actions such as waiting for the individual to sober up could also put everyone at risk, as there is no guarantee of how long that will take or whether they are able to function normally afterward. Overall, maintaining safety and compliance with regulations in aviation should always come first, making the decision to not fly with an intoxicated individual the most responsible choice.