Post by : Meena Ariff

Canadian aviation authorities have raised serious safety concerns involving Air India following an allegation that one of its pilots was under the influence of alcohol before reporting for duty at Vancouver International Airport.

The incident occurred on December 23, 2025, involving Air India Flight AI186, scheduled to operate from Vancouver to Delhi via Vienna. The flight was delayed at the last minute after one of the cockpit crew members was removed from duty just before departure.

Air India confirmed that the decision to offload the pilot was taken after Canadian authorities questioned the individual’s fitness to operate the flight. The crew member was subsequently taken for further inquiry by local authorities.

According to the airline, an alternate pilot was immediately assigned to operate the flight in line with established safety procedures, leading to the delay. Air India expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to passengers and stated that it is fully cooperating with Canadian authorities during the investigation.

A letter issued by Transport Canada on December 24, 2025, to senior Air India officials stated that two breathalyser tests conducted by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) confirmed that the pilot was under the influence of alcohol and therefore unfit for duty.

Transport Canada noted that the incident represents a violation of Canadian Aviation Regulations, including CARs 602.02 and 602.03, as well as conditions set out under Air India’s Foreign Air Operator Certificate.

The aviation regulator indicated that enforcement action is likely to be pursued by both the RCMP and Transport Canada Civil Aviation.

Air India said the pilot has been removed from flying duties pending the outcome of the investigation. The airline reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward any breach of aviation safety rules, adding that strict disciplinary action would be taken if the allegations are confirmed.

The incident has intensified scrutiny of pilot fitness checks and alcohol compliance standards for international airlines operating in Canadian airspace.

#Global News