Saturday, August 05, 2017

SpiceJet pilot's flying permit cancelled for failing alcohol test

NEW DELHI: Aviation regulator DGCA has cancelled the flying license of a senior pilot of private carrier SpiceJet allegedly due to his repeated failure to clear the mandatory alcohol test.

The flying permit of one of the SpiceJet Boeing 737 commanders has been cancelled as he tested positive thrice in breath analyzer tests, a senior DGCA official said tonight.

"The commander of the SpiceJet flight SG 114 was detected BA positive for the third time on July 11, resulting in the cancellation of his Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)," the official said.

SpiceJet spokesperson was not available for comments.

Rule 24 of Aircraft Rules prohibits crew members from taking any alcoholic drink 12 hours prior to the commencement of a flight and it is mandatory for him or her to undergo an alcohol test both before and after operating a flight.

Any crew member who tests positive in the pre-flight medical check or refuses to take a breathalyzer test is to be taken off flying duty for at least four weeks and the airline is required to initiate disciplinary proceedings.

While action against crew found high for the first time on work remains license suspension for three months, that for subsequent offenses have been watered down. Current rules say a pilot license will be cancelled in case of a third violation.