Drugs, alcohol tests for pilots backed

All adventure aviation operations must comply with Civil Aviation Rule Part 115, which requires a level of safety similar to a small airline.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has supported a recommendation for pilots to be tested for drugs and alcohol, after the coroner ruled the deaths of 11 people killed in the Carterton balloon crash were preventable.

CAA director Graeme Harris said the recommendation was in line with the authority's position on drug and alcohol use, and they would make the changes recommended by the coroner where possible.

"We have zero tolerance for drug and alcohol impairment in aviation and support any moves government may make to mitigate this risk through stronger regulation."

Changes made since the crash had already improved safety, Mr Harris said.

All adventure aviation operations, including commercial hot air ballooning and other activities including tandem hang-gliding and paragliding, must comply with Civil Aviation Rule Part 115, which requires a level of safety similar to a small airline.

"This regulation requires operators to have a drug and alcohol programme acceptable to the CAA. Any regime that does not require regular testing of staff involved in operations would not be accepted by the CAA.

"While we think that Part 115 is doing a good job, we welcome any moves by government that support our zero tolerance of alcohol and drug impairment."