The Effect of Low Blood Alcohol Levels on Pilot Performance in a Series of Simulated Approach and Landing Trials

Eight experienced pilots flew a series of approaches and landings in a simulator with the characteristics of a general aviation light twin. One half of the subjects were under the influence of low blood alcohol levels (mean = 11 mg%). Subjects in the alcohol condition showed significant deteriorations in their performance, as measured by deviations from the optimum approach speed or the optimum glideslope, when performing an instrument approach or when performing an asymmetric approach. The results are discussed with respect to the Federal Aviation Administration regulations concerning drinking and flying.