Alcoholism Treatment

The following is in response to the Advice on Alcohol article by Dr. Joseph Pursch in the May 6 View section.

Dr. Pursch’s statement “. . . The airlines have the best treatment system in this country . . .” is certainly correct and is a reality due primarily to the herculean efforts of the Air Line Pilots Assn.

Over the past decade the association has initiated, developed and, together with progressive airline management, established a system of education, intervention and treatment that has enhanced air carrier safety, improved employee productivity and saved the lives of 800 pilots afflicted with this often misunderstood disease.

DOUGLAS M. ARTHUR, chief pilot

Pacific Southwest Airlines

Los Angeles