What is the maximum duration after alcohol consumption that flight personnel are prohibited from flight planning?

Flight personnel are required to adhere to strict alcohol consumption guidelines to ensure safety and peak performance while operating aircraft. The maximum duration after alcohol consumption that flight personnel are prohibited from flight planning is 12 hours. This regulation is in place to mitigate the risks associated with diminished cognitive and motor functions due to alcohol's effects.

The 12-hour timeframe is known as the "bottle to throttle" rule, ensuring that personnel have sufficient time to metabolize the alcohol and return to a state of full readiness. This period allows for the dissipation of alcohol from the system, reducing the likelihood of impaired judgment or reaction times, which are critical for safe flight operations.

Maintaining these standards is vital for the safety of both the crew and the aircraft. This policy reflects the aviation industry's commitment to stringent safety practices, emphasizing that even small amounts of alcohol can significantly impact a pilot’s abilities.