Cigarette smoking remains a major preventable health risk, contributing to severe diseases such as lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke. For aircrew, the physiological and psychological effects of smoking—including impaired reaction time, vision, and vigilance—are further exacerbated by aviation-specific stressors like altitude and fatigue. E-cigarettes pose similar health risks and are unproven cessation tools. IFALPA strongly advocates for a completely smoke-free environment on all aircraft, including the flight deck, and recommends that pilots avoid smoking or vaping altogether to protect their health and performance.
