Why Human Factors and Oversight Still Matter in Aviation Operations Drug and alcohol misuse continues to present serious challenges across the aviation industry. Over the years, regulatory agencies have taken steps to address growing concerns, including expanded drug testing requirements involving opioid medications and safety-sensitive personnel. Even with advanced incident reporting software and modern operational systems, organizations must recognize that technology alone cannot eliminate human-factor risks. Integrated incident reporting software can help identify patterns and trends, but continuous awareness, education, and oversight remain essential for managing these safety concerns. The Ongoing Challenge of Prescription Drug Misuse In 2017, the U.S. Department of Transportation proposed adding several opioids, including hydrocodone, hydromorphone, oxymorphone, and oxycodone, to FAA drug testing requirements for commercial aviation personnel. The concern was significant and long...