How many hours before a flight should a pilot refrain from consuming alcohol?

The guideline for alcohol consumption before a flight is known as the "bottle to throttle" rule, which indicates that pilots should refrain from consuming alcohol for a minimum of eight hours prior to flying. This regulation is in place to ensure that pilots are not impaired during their duties, as alcohol can affect judgment, coordination, and reaction times, which are critical for flight safety.

The eight-hour rule is a widely accepted standard both in the United States and in many other aviation jurisdictions as it provides a sufficient buffer period for the body to metabolize alcohol. By allowing this amount of time, pilots can reduce the risk of flying while still under the influence and ensure that they are fully alert and capable of handling their responsibilities.