Randle Patrick McMurphy Knihy

This practical guide helps pilots navigate the challenges of the “Human Intervention Motivation Study” program, particularly those in recovery from substance abuse or those drawn into the program without addiction. The HIMS program, established in 1974 to reintegrate substance-abusing pilots, has transformed into a system that exerts significant control over pilots, with the potential for FAA medical certificates to be revoked at any time. It relies heavily on outdated “Twelve Step Facilitation Therapy,” primarily based on the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous, which has seen little evolution since its inception in 1935. Despite HIMS's claims of high recovery rates, these figures are misleading, as they often reflect the pressure on participants to comply due to threats of career loss and extensive monitoring that can last a lifetime. Pilots often enter the program during vulnerable moments, facing the prospect of losing their careers without being fully informed of their rights or the program's invasive nature. This guide aims to empower pilots to avoid HIMS if possible or to endure it if necessary. It serves as the resource the author wished they had when caught in the “HIMS EF5 tornado,” potentially preventing the career and life destruction that often accompanies the program.