Proposed Indian aviation regulations could penalize pilots for using perfume, adding to existing rules against alcohol-related offenses. India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has suggested updates to its bylaws regarding alcohol use among pilots.
While previous guidelines referred to substances like mouthwash that might trigger a positive breath test, the new proposal explicitly includes perfume. It states that crew members should avoid substances like mouthwash, tooth gel, or perfume with alcoholic content, as it could lead to a positive breath analyzer test.
The proposal is open for public comment until October 5, although it remains uncertain if wearing alcohol-containing perfume can trigger false positives. The aviation industry has faced instances of pilot drunkenness, highlighting the importance of such regulations.
