Why pilots avoid wearing perfume or using hand sanitisers right before a flight

Since many perfumes and colognes are alcohol-based, they can interfere with the results, experts suggest. “The breathalyzer device is so sensitive that it can detect 0.0001 per cent of alcohol. So if pilots have applied perfume, it may detect alcohol from perfume and show a false positive result, even if no alcohol has been consumed,” added Capt Tomar Awdhesh, director, Golden Epaulettes Aviation.

Such results may delay the flights, and pilots might have to face disciplinary action regardless of their intent, Capt Awdhesh continued.

Pilots are expected to take the breathalyzer test before being cleared to fly (Photo: Freepik)

Capt Rao said aviation breathalyzers (used by DGCA or airline authorities) are often calibrated and require deep lung air, not just mouth vapours. “In most airlines, pilots are asked not to use alcohol-based products immediately before a test. If a high reading is detected, retesting is done after a short wait for a repeat test,” said Capt Rao.

Therefore, pilots wait until the test. “Once the breathalyzer test is done, they use perfume as per their requirement. It’s simply a matter of safety and compliance with DGCA guidelines,” said Capt Awdhesh.

Here’s what pilots keep in mind

*Avoid using sprays or alcohol sanitisers on hands or near the mouth just before testing.
*If wrongly flagged, insist on a retest after a 5-minute gap in fresh air, said Capt Rao.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to.