Flying Under the Influence a Crime in Nevada
Many people are already aware of Nevada’s drunk driving laws (DUI) and drunk boating laws (BUI). An even more serious crime is Nevada flying under the influence laws (FUI). Anyone suspected of operating an aircraft while under the influence of alcohol or drugs faces harsh federal charges.
The FAA prohibits anyone from piloting an airplane who drank alcohol within the last eight hours, who has a BAC of .04 or above, or is otherwise under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The .04 BAC limit for Nevada flying under the influence laws is half that of the .08 DUI limit in Nevada. In addition, the plane doesn’t have to be moving for someone to be convicted of FUI—it may be enough for a conviction if they’re on the plane.
Refusing to submit to a chemical test if you’re suspected of violating Nevada flying under the influence laws is a criminal offense as well and can result in license suspension and fines. FUI penalties can include up to fifteen years in prison and hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines as well as license revocation.
