DGCA could ban use of perfumes, mouthwash, and toothpaste for pilot & flight crew: Know why.
DGCA could ban use of perfumes, mouthwash, and toothpaste for pilot & flight crew:
By: Pune Pulse
October 3, 2023
Pune: The Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India’s Civil Aviation Authority, is thinking of making it illegal for pilots and crew to use perfumes, mouthwash, or toothpaste while on breathalyzer checks.
As per the information, DGCA stated that no crew member may take any medication of formulation. No crew member may use any substance like mouthwash, tongue gel, perfume, or any product that contains alcohol that may cause a breathalyzer to test positive. Crew members who are taking any such medication should consult their company doctor before going on a flight.
This proposal is being made because perfumes contain a large amount of alcohol which could affect the accuracy of breathalyzer tests.
The Director General of the DGCA has stated that it is currently preparing a draft for civil aviation requirement (CAR) which has been made open for public comments. It is important to note that Indian airlines, including the Indian Airports Authority (IAA), have stringent procedures for performing breathalyzer tests prior to any flight. These tests are often monitored by cameras.
The pre-departure breathalyzer test takes place at the departure airport. A crew member who tests positive has the option to take a second breathalyzer test using the same equipment or another equipment. The time between the first test and the second test must not be more than 20-25 minutes. During this time, the crew member undergoing the test is allowed to wash his face or rinse his mouth if he/she wishes.
Shreyas Vange
