California · Public Utilities Code - PUC

PUC §21415: No person shall be in, or perform any act in connection with the maintenance or operation of, any aircraft when under the influence of intoxicating liquor.

Misdemeanor

What this law says, in plain English

It is illegal to be under the influence of alcohol while in, maintaining, or operating an aircraft, except for passengers who are not otherwise liable under other laws.

Read the full statutory text

No person shall be in, or perform any act in connection with the maintenance or operation of, any aircraft when under the influence of intoxicating liquor. This section does not apply to a person who is in an aircraft merely as a passenger, but this section shall not be construed to relieve any such person of criminal liability imposed by any other law for being intoxicated while in an aircraft.

Verify at the official source: California legislative text

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This page is legal information, not legal advice. Code text is sourced from official publications and may lag amendments — always confirm at the official source linked above. Plain-English summaries and relationship data are AI-derived and reviewed on an ongoing basis; verify with a licensed attorney before acting.