Struggling with addiction?

You are not alone. There is a community of pilots, both airline and general aviation, who have faced addiction to alcohol or other substances. Many have walked this path quietly. Some are in early recovery. Some have years of sobriety. All understand the unique pressures of aviation and the fear that can come with asking for help. Recovery is possible, and it does not have to cost you your career.

Don’t know where to start?

If you are unsure what to do next, begin by talking to someone who understands both recovery and aviation. There are confidential, peer-led meetings specifically for pilots and aviation professionals. There are structured programs, such as HIMS, designed to help pilots address substance use while maintaining aviation safety and a path back to the flight deck.

Taking the first step does not mean you are admitting defeat. It means you are choosing a path forward.

RAINBOW BIRDS – LGBTQ+ AVIATION RECOVERY MEETING

Rainbow Birds is a weekly online recovery meeting serving LGBTQ+ members of the aviation community. It is a recognized "Nest" of Birds of a Feather, founded by 2 NGPA Members. The meeting is grounded in the principles and traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous and is open to anyone with a desire to stop drinking or using.

This space exists so LGBTQ+ pilots and aviation professionals can share experience, strength, and hope without editing identity or navigating pronoun discomfort.  This meeting is intentionally designed to center LGBTQ+ members of the aviation community. All are welcome, with the expectation that attendees honor the intent of the space and contribute to a respectful, affirming environment.

CONFIDENTIAL SUPPORT OPTIONS 

Confidentially discussing your situation with a knowledgeable person is a strong place to begin. A private conversation can help you clearly define the issues and understand the options available to you.

There are several confidential resources available:

• Contact your union HIMS representative for information about policies and recovery resources specific to your airline or organization.

• ALPA members can access additional information at http://www.alpa.org. Log in and navigate to Committees → Pilot Assistance → HIMS to locate your airline’s HIMS committee roster and contact information.

• Birds of a Feather (BOAF) is a peer-led recovery community for aviation professionals. BOAF hosts meetings worldwide and provides fellowship for pilots and crew seeking sobriety. Learn more at https://boaf.org/

• Learn more about the Human Intervention Motivation Study (HIMS) program at https://himsprogram.com/

Regardless of whom you contact, it is important to actively seek help for yourself or someone you care about.

Recovery is possible. Early action protects both your health and your career.

If you are in crisis or concerned about your immediate safety, call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or contact local emergency services.