Canadian aviation officials are deeply concerned regarding Air India after reports surfaced that a pilot was allegedly found intoxicated just prior to a flight at Vancouver International Airport.
This incident took place on December 23, 2025, involving Flight AI186, which was set to travel from Vancouver to Delhi with a stop in Vienna. The aircraft's departure was postponed at the last moment when a member of the cockpit crew was removed shortly before takeoff.
Air India confirmed that the decision to relieve the pilot was made following inquiries by Canadian authorities regarding the pilot's ability to operate the aircraft. The individual was subsequently taken by local authorities for further questioning.
Following the offloading, an alternate pilot was swiftly designated to operate the flight in accordance with safety protocols, causing the delay. Air India expressed its regret for any inconvenience caused to travelers and mentioned that it is fully cooperating with authorities throughout the investigation.
On December 24, 2025, a letter from Transport Canada to key Air India executives noted that two breathalyser tests performed by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) indicated the pilot was unfit for duty due to alcohol consumption.
Transport Canada emphasized that this event constitutes a breach of Canadian Aviation Regulations, namely CARs 602.02 and 602.03, in addition to stipulations in Air India's Foreign Air Operator Certificate.
The regulator signaled that enforcement actions might be forthcoming from both the RCMP and Transport Canada Civil Aviation.
Air India stated that the pilot has been suspended from flying pending the results of the investigation while affirming its strict no-tolerance approach to breaches in aviation safety protocols, asserting that serious disciplinary measures will be enacted if the allegations are substantiated.
This incident has raised further questions regarding pilot assessments and alcohol compliance standards for all international airlines operating within Canadian airspace.
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