The dangerous impact smoking has on health has been more publicized in recent years, and there have been multiple attempts to regulate and limit the who and where of smoking habits. Smoke-free policies have even been introduced into the various branches of the military, but none of these have achieved a smoke-free status.
The Policy Efforts Against Smoking
The Department of Defense established a tobacco control policy to prohibit smoking inside facilities. However, there are many exemptions to these limitations. There were many indoor designated smoking areas that did not have to be relinquished. Additionally, only the Air Force has taken strides to prohibit the advertisement of tobacco products in its military publication. In spite of a number of recommendations made by the Institute of Medicine Committee on Smoking Cessation in Military and Veteran populations that would reduce tobacco-related illnesses and the financial burned it causes, none of the branches have implemented any of them.
The Strange Plane Policy
Back in the 1990s, the U.S. banned smoking on all flights. By 2000, international flights had done the same thing. However, the U.S. military isn`t under the control of the FAA.
They are free to choose their own military fasteners distributors, set their own maintenance standards, and even have their own pilot`s license. When it comes to smoking on planes, military guidelines have forbidden it.
Yet, there are still ashtrays installed on aircraft, all the way down to the UH-60 Blackhawk. Why? Because the FAA still requires the installation of ashtrays on civilian planes, even though there is a steep fine for lighting up while onboard.
Though there is a considerable amount of evidence outlining the harmful effects of smoking, it is still a personal choice. Unless you are flying or working in a military smoke-free zone, you are allowed to keep your tobacco.