Pilot arrested in Heathrow

[bogman]

http://http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/london/7679165.stm



How often are pilots checked from drink and drugs,is it random or is it when they are under suspicion?


Regards,Bogman

[MathFox]

I guess the pilots on this board can tell more about the frequency of random testing, but there are random tests and additional tests when there is suspicion... I recall that ATC routed a KLM plane to a remote parking at EHAM (and kept it there for a while) to do a last minute breathalyser test. The pilots came out clear, but with 45 minutes delay.

(There were reports of a whiff of alcohol in the forward galley, that's what triggered the test.)

[Jason]

Completely random from what I'm aware of...no idea how often it is required or how many screenings are required per quarter/year/etc.

[bogman]

Is it the same for controllers as they have to make quick and important decisions?

[Squawk 7700]

Speaking of pilots and alcohol, there is actually a movie about an alcoholic pilot. The film titled "The Pilot" made in 1980, starring and directed by Cliff Robertson who was a pilot in real life. Anyone interested in aviation will like this movie. No fancy CGI effects, just a simple film about an alcoholic pilot who flies a DC-8. Aerial photography by Clay Lacey. Accurate ATC content and procedures for a movie. Wish it was available on DVD.
Here is a clip I found on YouTube:

[ect76]

Check out the black fog that DC8 leaves on takeoff! Excellent!!