What must a pilot do after being convicted for operating a motor vehicle under the influence?

After being convicted for operating a motor vehicle under the influence, a pilot is required to report the conviction to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) within 60 days. This requirement is part of the regulations that ensure pilots maintain their eligibility and safety standards.

The FAA has a vested interest in ensuring that pilots adhere to the highest standards of safety and responsibility, and any conviction related to substance abuse is considered significant enough to warrant immediate reporting. This process allows the FAA to assess the pilot's fitness to fly and take appropriate action if necessary, which could include additional training, evaluations, or even actions against their pilot certificate.

Other options might not align with the specific regulatory requirements. For instance, filing a lawsuit or notifying an airline may be actions a pilot considers, but they do not fulfill the obligation set forth by the FAA. Attending a traffic safety course could be a penalty or recommendation stemming from the conviction, but it does not satisfy the legal requirement to report the conviction itself. Thus, timely reporting to the FAA is crucial for regulatory compliance and maintaining aviation safety.