Originally Posted by MedicalTruth

Here's another scenario - (hypothetical, but very close to an actual case)

A pilot has too much to drink at a Birthday party in a local restaurant, drove there, but had a designated driver.

The whole restaurant takes notice of a commotion in the parking lot. A cop is being abusive to a suspect. The pilot makes a comment, "take it easy" to the cop. The cop approaches the Pilot and subsequently arrests the pilot for DUI since the pilot had his keys in his pocket and the car in close proximity in the parking lot.

The BAC comes back .20 because the pilot just had two shots prior to the test.

The pilot goes to jail, posts bail, has to spend upwards of 5,000 for a DUI lawyer, the charge is plead out to Public Intoxication.

The pilot has to notify the FAA of the DUI within 60 days as per 61.15. (MVA depending on State).

The pilot is now grounded and has to pay upwards of 15,000 to get his/her medical back through a mandatory HIMS program based on >.20 BAC. At least 2 years of lost income.

The pilot is a brand new CFI with hardly any cash, just starting out, 20-something years old. His/her career is ruined.


Alternative scenario -

Same as above, but the cop makes an arrest for Public intoxication. The court dismisses the charge after an apology since it was a stupid first offense, and the pilot really never did anything wrong except make a statement.

The FAA never knows about it.