Apologies if this has already been posted.
Drug tests for aviators
ANYONE involved in the aviation industry, from a commercial airline mechanic to a private citizen flying a crop duster, will now be alcohol and drug tested.
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority has been given $9 million to spend over three years to introduce a regulated breathalyser operation.
The scheme will test any personnel – either private fliers or employed staff – who are not already being tested under commercial schemes, such as airline pilots.
Department of Transport officials confirmed the scheme would begin in the 2007-08 financial year and said it was designed to increase air safety, particularly around small regional airports.