Supporting Safer Skies

At Advance Diagnostics, we recognise that the safety of our skies relies not only on technical excellence but also on the wellbeing of the people who work within aviation. A robust and evidence-based approach to drug and alcohol management is central to this.

Since the introduction of the new Civil Aviation Act earlier this year, we have taken the initiative to support aviation operators—large and small—as they navigate these requirements. Through a series of free lunchtime webinars, we have provided a forum for operators to engage with the changes, share experiences, and build confidence in their next steps.

The challenge is real. In New Zealand, recent wastewater testing has shown a concerning rise in the use of synthetic opioids such as oxycodone and fentanyl. These emerging trends underscore the importance of comprehensive Drug and Alcohol Management Plans (DAMPs) being developed ahead of the April 2027 deadline.

The new legislation makes clear what is expected:

random testing protocols for safety-sensitive workers
robust procedures for non-negative results and refusals
ongoing education and training for staff and supervisors

Our role is to help aviation operators respond effectively and sustainably. With deep expertise in workplace drug and alcohol testing, we are well placed to:

guide operators through compliance and best-practice processes
design practical and cost-efficient testing regimes
provide training, education and policy support that strengthens workplace safety culture

Aviation operators are already working hard to deliver safe, reliable services. Our job is to make sure that drug and alcohol management is not a burden, but an enabler of safety and resilience.

At its heart, this is about trust—between operators, regulators, staff, and the travelling public. Safety begins well before take-off, and Advance Diagnostics is committed to walking alongside the aviation sector to ensure that our skies remain among the safest in the world.

Blog