Expert Opinion
AINsight: CBD and Flying
CBD is technically not prohibited, but consumption or use nonetheless carries big risks for pilots.

You can’t look at the TV or the internet or talk to friends or coworkers without being besieged with “information” and anecdotal testimonials on CBDs. I am asked virtually every day in my AME practice about pilots' use of CBD products. This subject was also brought up several times at recent FAA conferences that I attended.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring compound found in the flowers of the cannabis plant (marijuana). Purported uses include everything from arthritis relief (in both humans and pets), stress reduction, and as a sleep aid, among others. There is now even a legal prescription medication based on this substance.

Robert Sancetta, M.D.
AIN Contributor
About the author

Dr. Robert Sancetta is a former DC-10 captain with 11,000 flight hours. He has worked as a Senior AME since 1993 and is appointed as AME Consultant to the FAA Federal Air Surgeon.

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