Chapter 9:  Physiological Factors (Including Drugs and Alcohol) Affecting Pilot  Performance  Introduction  Hyperventilation Physiological/Medical Factors that Affect Pilot Performance  14 CFR part 107 does not allow operation of small UA if the remote PIC, the person manipulating the  controls, or Visual Observer (VO) is unable to safely carry out his or her responsibilities. It is the remote  PIC’s responsibility to ensure all crewmembers are not participating in the operation while impaired.  While drug and alcohol use are known to impair judgment, certain over-the-counter (OTC) medications  and medical conditions could also affect the ability to safely operate a small UA. For example, certain  antihistamines and decongestants may cause drowsiness. We also emphasize that part 107 prohibits a  person from serving as a remote PIC, person manipulating the controls, VO, or other crewmember if he  or she: There are certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy, may also create a risk to operations. It is the  remote PIC’s responsibility to determine that their medical condition is under control and they can  safely conduct a small UA operation.  Important medical factors that a pilot should be aware of include the following:  Hyperventilation is the excessive rate and depth of respiration leading to abnormal loss of carbon  dioxide from the blood. This condition occurs more often among pilots than is generally recognized.  It seldom incapacitates completely, but it causes disturbing symptoms that can alarm the  uninformed pilot. In such cases, increased breathing rate and anxiety further aggravate the  problem. Hyperventilation can lead to unconsciousness due to the respiratory system’s overriding  mechanism to regain control of breathing. Pilots encountering an unexpected stressful situation  may subconsciously increase their breathing rate.  Common symptoms of hyperventilation include: Remote Pilot – Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Study Guide  45 • Visual impairment • Unconsciousness • Lightheaded or dizzy sensation • Tingling sensations • the effects of alcohol and drugs • heatstroke  • dehydration  • fatigue  • stress  • hyperventilation • Has consumed any alcoholic beverage within the preceding 8 hours  • Is under the influence of alcohol  • Has a blood alcohol concentration of .04 percent or greater  • Is using a drug that affects the person’s mental or physical capabilities.