Canada’s transport regulator has flagged a serious safety concern after an Air India pilot failed two breathalyser tests at Vancouver International Airport, prompting authorities to ask the airline to launch an investigation.
Canada’s transport regulator has asked Air India to launch an investigation after a pilot reported for duty under the influence of alcohol and failed two consecutive breathalyser tests at Vancouver International Airport, raising serious safety concerns.
The incident occurred on December 23 and led to a last-minute delay of Flight AI186, which was scheduled to operate from Vancouver to Delhi via Vienna. Transport Canada flagged the issue following a complaint by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), which alleged that an Air India captain was unfit to fly.
Air India said one of the cockpit crew members was offloaded prior to departure after Canadian authorities raised concerns about the pilot’s fitness for duty. The crew member was taken for further inquiry, and an alternate pilot was rostered to operate the flight, resulting in the delay. The airline said it regretted the inconvenience caused to passengers and was fully cooperating with local authorities.
In a letter dated December 24, 2025, Transport Canada informed senior Air India officials that two breathalyser tests conducted by the RCMP confirmed the pilot was under the influence of alcohol and “unfit for duty”. The regulator said the incident violated Canadian Aviation Regulations, including CARs 602.02 and 602.03, as well as conditions outlined in Air India’s Foreign Air Operator Certificate.
“It is likely that enforcement action will be pursued by the RCMP and by TCCA,” the letter said, adding that Air India has been asked to take corrective steps and submit a detailed response by January 26.
Reuters reported, citing a person familiar with the matter, that the pilot was asked to leave the aircraft following the tests conducted by Canadian police. Transport Canada described the incident as a serious matter and indicated that enforcement action is likely.
Air India confirmed that the pilot has been taken off flying duties during the enquiry. The airline reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards violations of rules and regulations and said any confirmed breach would attract strict disciplinary action in line with company policy.
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