AN ANALYISIS OF THE CURRENT KNOWLEDGE LEVELS OF CERTIFIED FLIGHT INSTRUCTORS ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES SPECIFIC TO MARIJUANA

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify the current level of knowledge of aspiring professional pilots regarding controlled substances specific to marijuana. There has been a significant rise in the popularity of recreational and medical marijuana use. Although several states have moved to legalize both the medical and recreational use of marijuana, the Federal Aviation Administration maintains strict regulations forbidding marijuana use. Due to the rise in popularity of medical and recreational marijuana use, including cannabidiol (CBD), pilots must be aware of the regulations and risks regarding marijuana products. This study sought to identify a relationship between college graduation status and the current knowledge levels of Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs) at Middle Tennessee State University’s (MTSU) flight school regarding controlled substances specific to marijuana and CBD. A twenty-one question testing instrument was used to collect quantitative data from the CFI’s at MTSU’s flight school. Results of this study failed to prove statistical significance, but still indicated that CFI’s that have graduated from college have an increased knowledge level on controlled substances specific to marijuana than CFI’s that are still enrolled college.