On Tuesday September 14, 2010 the Ducth Police pulled aside a US pilot on suspicion of exceeding the intoxication level for flying. Shortly before take off the 52 year old captain was apprehended and tested for alcohol content. The pilot failed the administered alcohol test with a score of 0.023 percent.
The authorities canceled the flight and the captain was fined 700 euros the equivalence of 911 dollars. However Delta Airlines stated that the canceled fight was due to a crew member that appeared unfit for duty.
CNN reports that the company is cooperating with the local authorities and launching an investigation of their own. The Pilot has been suspended from Delta Airlines until further investigation occurs.
Before reading this article I was unaware that any amount of drinking was permitted for commercial pilots, but after reading this article I am wondering why it is permitted at all? Would I desire to fly knowing there is the slightest chance my pilot has been drinking on the job? No I would not.This form of irresponsibility not only effects other people's lives but the families of those who are traveling as well. From a Biblical Worldview some might suggest the pilot has done no wrong, because he had not reached intoxication or drunkenness, but I beg to differ. Consuming a substance to alter any form of behavior, cognition, or physicality without moral motives is wrong. Jesus Christ teaches self-control and awareness which are two states of mind that alcohol aims to distract us from (1 Cr 9:25-27; Gal 5:23; 1 Th 4:4; ). If an individual thinks it is possible to be inhibited by alcohol and still operate a commercial airline then I say "God speed, and I will pray for your life, but your actions scream of foolishness". We as a people should be practicing self control so that we may progress through life and expound our wisdom on others.
Good article,I was unaware that pilots were even allowed to drink before a flight let alone reaching the intoxication level. Now not only do we have drinking and driving but drinking and flying. I pray for America and the alcohol use that has gotten out of control. I also pray for the many families that have lost family due to its effects.
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