LIS Logo

Virginia Law

Code of Virginia

Creating a Report: Check the sections you'd like to appear in the report, then use the "Create Report" button at the bottom of the page to generate your report. Once the report is generated you'll then have the option to download it as a pdf, print or email the report.

Code of Virginia
Title 5.1. Aviation
Chapter 1. Aircraft, Airmen and Airports Generally
7/10/2026

§ 5.1-13. Operation of aircraft while under influence of intoxicating liquors or drugs; reckless operation.

Any person who operates any aircraft within the airspace over, above or upon the lands or waters of the Commonwealth while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or of any narcotic or marijuana or any habit-forming drugs is guilty of a felony and shall be confined in a state correctional facility not less than one nor more than five years, or, in the discretion of the court or jury trying the case, be confined in jail not exceeding 12 months and fined not exceeding $500, or both such fine and imprisonment.

Any person who operates any aircraft within the airspace over, above or upon the lands or waters of the Commonwealth carelessly or heedlessly in willful or wanton disregard of the rights or safety of others, or without due caution and circumspection and in a manner so as to endanger any person or property, is guilty of a misdemeanor.

Code 1950, § 5-10.1; 1964, c. 416; 1966, c. 576; 2026, Sp. Sess. I, c. 1.

The chapters of the acts of assembly referenced in the historical citation at the end of this section may not constitute a comprehensive list of such chapters and may exclude chapters whose provisions have expired.