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In March 2004, the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) recommended the introduction of mandatory alcohol and other drug (AOD) testing for the aviation industry. The ATSB’s report was prompted by a multiple-fatality aircraft accident in which AOD use by the pilot was identified as a possible contributing factor.
In response, the Australian Government directed CASA to develop an AOD management program for the aviation industry, similar to programs in place in other transport sectors. In March 2009, Part 99 of the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998 (CASR) was introduced. It contains two key subparts:
- Subpart 99B – which requires certain organisations and individuals to develop a drug and alcohol management program (DAMP). DAMPs are subject to audit, oversight and monitoring by CASA.
- Note: CASR Part 99 can be found in Volume 3 of the current compilation of the Complete CASRs – produced by the Attorney General's Department. If you have any difficulties finding the Part, please contact the ComLaw Help Desk.
- Subpart 99C – which establishes a regime of no-notice AOD testing by CASA covering all individuals who perform safety sensitive aviation activities (SSAAs) as defined in section 33 (1) of the Civil Aviation Act 1988 (the Act) and specified in CASR 99.015.