A remote pilot finished two beers at 2200. At 0530 the next morning, the pilot's blood alcohol level is 0.01 percent. May the pilot act as remote PIC at 0530?
- AYes, because the blood alcohol level is below 0.04 percent
- BNo, because 8 hours have not passed since drinking alcohol
- CYes, because alcohol rules apply only to manned aircraft pilots
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. No, because 8 hours have not passed since drinking alcohol
§107.27 applies §§91.17 and 91.19 to the remote PIC. Part 91 requires blood alcohol below .04 percent and 8 hours between drinking and piloting. From 2200 to 0530 is only 7.5 hours, so the pilot may not fly yet.
- A. Incorrect. Wrong. Even with blood alcohol well below .04 percent, a pilot cannot fly sooner than 8 hours after drinking alcohol.
- B. Correct. Only 7.5 hours have passed; both the 8-hour and the .04 percent limits must be met.
- C. Incorrect. Wrong. §107.27 makes the remote PIC comply with §§91.17 and 91.19.
Source
14 CFR Part 107 (eCFR), §107.27 A person manipulating the flight controls of a small unmanned aircraft system or acting as a remote pilot in command or visual observer must comply with the provisions of §§ 91.17 and 91.19 of this chapter.
FAA-G-8082-22 Remote Pilot – sUAS Study Guide, Chapter 9, Alcohol Even though blood alcohol may be well below .04 percent, a pilot cannot fly sooner than 8 hours after drinking alcohol.