NEW DELHI: Canadian authorities have informed Air India that one of its pilots was found under the influence of alcohol shortly before operating a flight on December 23, 2025, in violation of Canadian law. Transport Canada has asked the airline to investigate the incident and report the action taken by January 26, 2026.
A day after the pilot failed a breathalyser test, Transport Canada wrote to Air India seeking “corrective action” under its safety management system to prevent a recurrence. Taking a serious view, Air India has sought details of the test, including the alcohol level detected, and has informed Directorate General of Civil Aviation.
In a December 24 letter, Transport Canada said the Royal Canadian Mounted Police found that the captain reported for duty on Air India flight AI 186 while unfit to fly. Two breathalyser tests conducted at Vancouver International Airport confirmed the finding after the pilot was asked to leave the aircraft. The regulator said the incident breached Canadian Aviation Regulations and conditions of Air India’s Foreign Air Operator Certificate, adding that enforcement action may follow by both the RCMP and Transport Canada Civil Aviation.
Because Pakistan’s airspace has been closed following Operation Sindoor, Air India’s ultra-long-haul North America flights now make a refuelling stop. AI 186 was scheduled to operate from Vancouver to Vienna with one cockpit crew, and onward to Delhi with another.
Sources said the pilot, who had a layover in Vienna, was allegedly buying alcohol at Vancouver duty free. A staff member reportedly detected alcohol on his breath and alerted police, who traced him to the aircraft using CCTV.
Pilots are prohibited from consuming alcohol at least 12 hours before a flight. Aviation experts say crew members who are unable to comply should declare themselves unfit to operate to protect safety and their careers.
In a statement, Air India said flight AI 186 experienced a last-minute delay after one cockpit crew member was offloaded following concerns raised by Canadian authorities about fitness for duty. The airline said it is cooperating fully, the pilot has been taken off flying duties pending inquiry, and any confirmed violation will invite strict disciplinary action, reiterating its zero-tolerance policy and commitment to safety.
