FAA DOT SAP Services | Aviation Professional Solutions

DOT SAP Counselor with Aviation Professional

Specialized DOT SAP Services for Aviation Professionals

Our FAA-focused DOT SAP services are specifically designed for aviation professionals who have violated the Department of Transportation (DOT) drug and alcohol testing regulations.

We understand the unique requirements and high standards of the aviation industry, and our SAP professionals are experienced in working with pilots, flight attendants, aircraft maintenance personnel, air traffic controllers, and other safety-sensitive aviation employees.

A DOT violation doesn't have to end your aviation career. Our specialized program has helped hundreds of aviation professionals successfully return to duty.

Who Needs FAA DOT SAP Services?

Pilots

Commercial and private pilots who have failed a drug or alcohol test or refused to submit to testing as required by FAA regulations.

Flight Attendants

Cabin crew members who are subject to DOT testing requirements and have had a violation that requires SAP evaluation.

Maintenance Personnel

Aircraft mechanics and maintenance technicians who perform safety-sensitive functions and are subject to DOT drug and alcohol testing.

Air Traffic Controllers

Controllers who have violated FAA drug and alcohol regulations and need to complete the return-to-duty process.

Ground Crew

Airport personnel who perform safety-sensitive functions including aircraft fueling, de-icing, and dispatch operations.

Security Screeners

Aviation security personnel who are subject to DOT drug and alcohol testing requirements.

The FAA Return-to-Duty Process

Our comprehensive program guides aviation professionals through each step of the return-to-duty process with expertise and compassion.

1

Initial SAP Evaluation

Your journey begins with a comprehensive face-to-face assessment conducted by our DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professional. We'll review your testing violation, substance use history, and other relevant factors to develop a personalized return-to-duty plan that meets FAA requirements.

Timeframe: Usually completed in a single 60-90 minute session

2

Education and/or Treatment

Based on your initial evaluation, we'll recommend appropriate education and/or treatment programs specifically designed for aviation professionals. These programs address substance abuse issues while considering the unique stressors and requirements of the aviation industry.

Timeframe: Varies based on individual needs, typically 1-12 weeks

3

Follow-Up Evaluation

After completing your prescribed education/treatment program, you'll return for a follow-up evaluation to assess your progress and readiness to return to safety-sensitive functions. Our SAP will evaluate your compliance with the recommended program and determine if you're ready to return to duty.

Timeframe: Usually completed in a single 45-60 minute session

4

Return-to-Duty Test

Once you're cleared by our SAP, you'll need to pass a return-to-duty drug and/or alcohol test under direct observation. We'll coordinate with your employer or a certified testing facility to arrange this crucial step in your return-to-work process.

Timeframe: Testing can typically be scheduled within 24-48 hours

5

Follow-Up Testing Plan

Our SAP will establish a follow-up testing plan as required by FAA regulations. This typically includes a minimum of 6 unannounced tests in the first 12 months, with the possibility of extending up to 5 years. We'll provide detailed documentation for your employer to implement this plan.

Timeframe: Testing plan is established as part of your return-to-duty process

Understanding FAA Drug & Alcohol Testing Regulations

Aviation professionals are subject to strict regulatory requirements that differ in some aspects from other DOT agencies.

Key FAA Drug & Alcohol Testing Regulations

14 CFR Part 120

The primary regulation governing drug and alcohol testing programs for FAA-regulated employers and employees in the aviation industry. It outlines testing requirements, prohibited substances, and consequences of violations.

Safety-Sensitive Functions in Aviation

FAA regulations specifically define safety-sensitive functions to include flight crew members, flight attendants, flight instructors, aircraft dispatchers, maintenance personnel, security screeners, ground security coordinators, and air traffic controllers.

Testing Requirements

Aviation employees are subject to pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, post-accident, return-to-duty, and follow-up testing for drugs and alcohol. The FAA has specific requirements regarding testing procedures and approved substances for testing.

Medical Review Officer (MRO) Requirements

The FAA has specific requirements for Medical Review Officers who review and interpret drug test results for aviation employees, ensuring that proper protocols are followed and legitimate medical explanations are considered.

FAA Clearinghouse Considerations

Unlike the FMCSA, which uses the Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse, the FAA does not currently maintain a centralized database for drug and alcohol violations. However, violations are still tracked through other reporting mechanisms, and employers are required to verify a prospective employee's testing history directly with previous employers.

Our SAP professionals stay current on all FAA regulatory requirements and reporting procedures to ensure your return-to-duty process is fully compliant.

How Our SAP Program Helps Aviation Professionals

We provide specialized support tailored to the unique needs and regulations of the aviation industry.

Industry-Specific Expertise

Aviation-Focused Assessment: Our evaluations consider the unique stressors, schedules, and demands of aviation careers.
FAA Regulatory Compliance: We ensure all aspects of your return-to-duty process meet current FAA requirements.
Medical Certificate Coordination: We provide guidance on how the SAP process may impact your FAA medical certification.
Industry-Specific Treatment Resources: Access to treatment providers who understand the aviation industry's unique requirements.

Comprehensive Documentation

We provide all necessary documentation for your employer, the FAA, and any other required parties to facilitate your smooth return to safety-sensitive functions.

Employer Coordination

We work directly with your employer and their Designated Employer Representative (DER) to ensure clear communication throughout the return-to-duty process.

Ongoing Support

Beyond the formal SAP process, we provide resources and support to help you maintain compliance with follow-up testing and sustain long-term success in your aviation career.

Frequently Asked Questions: FAA DOT SAP Services

The timeline varies depending on individual circumstances, but for aviation professionals, the process typically takes 4-12 weeks from initial evaluation to return-to-duty. Factors that affect the timeline include the nature of the violation, the recommended education/treatment program, and your engagement with the process. Our goal is to help you return to work as efficiently as possible while ensuring compliance with all FAA requirements.

A DOT drug or alcohol violation may impact your FAA medical certification. The FAA's Aerospace Medical Certification Division reviews cases involving substance abuse and may require additional documentation or evaluation. Our SAP professionals can guide you through this separate but related process and help coordinate with Aviation Medical Examiners (AMEs) when necessary. It's important to address both the DOT SAP requirements and medical certification requirements simultaneously.

Yes, FAA regulations do not prohibit you from working in non-safety-sensitive positions during the SAP process. Many aviation employers offer alternative roles during this time. However, this depends on your employer's policies and available positions. We can provide documentation to your employer confirming your active participation in the SAP process, which may help facilitate temporary reassignment.

Yes, SAP evaluations are confidential, though limited information must be shared with your employer. The detailed content of your evaluation and treatment is protected by federal confidentiality laws. Your employer will only receive information about your compliance with the program, recommendations for return-to-duty, and follow-up testing plans. We maintain strict confidentiality protocols in accordance with both DOT regulations and healthcare privacy standards.

If you change employers during the SAP process, your DOT return-to-duty requirements remain in effect. Your new employer must be informed of your current status in the SAP process, and you must complete all requirements before performing safety-sensitive functions. We can help facilitate this transition by providing appropriate documentation and coordinating with your new employer's Designated Employer Representative (DER).

The basic framework of follow-up testing is consistent across DOT agencies, including the FAA. This requires a minimum of 6 unannounced tests in the first 12 months following return to duty, with the possibility of extending testing for up to 5 years. However, due to the safety-critical nature of aviation functions, SAPs often recommend more comprehensive follow-up testing plans for aviation professionals. Our SAP will develop a follow-up testing plan that ensures both regulatory compliance and public safety.

What Aviation Professionals Say About Our Services

5.0

"As a commercial pilot with 15 years of experience, I was devastated after my DOT violation. Your FAA-specific SAP program provided exactly what I needed—not just to meet regulatory requirements, but to address the underlying issues that led to my violation. I'm now back in the cockpit with a renewed commitment to safety."

JP

James P.

Commercial Airline Pilot

5.0

"The guidance I received through your FAA DOT SAP program was exceptional. Your team understood the unique challenges faced by aircraft maintenance technicians and provided practical solutions that helped me complete the process quickly while learning valuable lessons. I'm grateful for the second chance at my career."

MT

Michael T.

Aircraft Maintenance Technician

4.5

"When I failed my random drug test, I thought my career as a flight attendant was over. Your team not only walked me through the FAA SAP process step by step but also helped me navigate the complex conversations with my employer. The specialized knowledge of aviation regulations made all the difference in my successful return to duty."

SL

Sarah L.

Flight Attendant

5.0

"As an air traffic controller, I was particularly concerned about how a DOT violation would impact my career. Your SAP understood the high-stress nature of my position and tailored the program to address both the violation and the work-related stressors. The process was thorough but efficient, allowing me to return to my critical role."

RB

Robert B.

Air Traffic Controller

Ready to Return to Your Aviation Career?

Our specialized FAA DOT SAP program provides the expertise, support, and guidance you need to successfully navigate the return-to-duty process.

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