Is it acceptable to operate a UAS under the influence of drugs or alcohol?

Operating a UAS under the influence of drugs or alcohol is strictly prohibited due to significant safety concerns. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other regulatory bodies emphasize that a remote pilot must be alert and capable of making sound judgments. Impairment from substances can severely affect a pilot’s cognitive and motor functions, increasing the risk of accidents and endangering people, property, and other aircraft. Therefore, ensuring that operators are in a fit state to fly is crucial for maintaining safety standards in aviation, which is why the prohibition is a firm rule rather than a matter of personal judgment or substance specifics. This regulation is aligned with the expectations of all pilots, not just those operating UAS, thus reinforcing the commitment to safety in the airspace.