Alcohol is a widely used drug, and its abuse is a serious public
health problem. Alcohol has many widespread effects on the body,
and impairs almost all forms of cognitive function, such as
information processing, decision-making, attention and reasoning.
Visual and vestibular functions are also adversely affected. The
performance of any demanding task, such as flying an aircraft, is
thus impaired by the effects of alcohol. Many studies have shown a
significant proportion of aircraft accidents associated with
alcohol use. Alcohol increases the risk of spatial disorientation,
hypoxia and poor +Gz tolerance. Many studies have consistently
shown significant detrimental effects of alcohol on pilot
performance, both in the acute stages and in the post-alcohol
period for up to 48 hours. Even low doses of alcohol can lead to
reduced performance. While a pilot may legally fly 8 hours after
drinking, the residual effects of alcohol may seriously impair
their performance, especially in high work load and demanding
situations.