Canada’s transport regulator has urged Air India to probe the air india pilot alcohol incident where a captain reported for duty under the influence at Vancouver International Airport. The event occurred on 23 December 2025, involving Flight AI186 to Delhi. Authorities offloaded the pilot after he failed two breathalyser tests, leading to a delay as an alternate crew member took over.
This air india pilot alcohol incident underscores persistent safety challenges for India’s national carrier, particularly amid scrutiny from regulators in South Asia and abroad. It affects thousands of South Asian travellers relying on Air India for international routes, potentially straining India-Canada aviation ties and prompting calls for stricter crew protocols.
Details of the Air India Pilot Alcohol Incident
On 23 December 2025, at Vancouver International Airport, the captain of Air India Flight AI186 arrived for duty. Canadian authorities, following a complaint, summoned the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. The RCMP administered two breathalyser tests, both of which the pilot failed. Officials deemed him unfit, removing him from the flight.
An alternate pilot was rostered, causing a last-minute delay. The flight, a long-haul route with a refuelling stop in Vienna due to airspace restrictions over Pakistan, eventually departed. Air India confirmed the substitution followed safety protocols.
The air india pilot failed breathalyser results prompted immediate action. Transport Canada, in a letter dated 24 December 2025, notified Air India of violations. The document cited breaches of Canadian Aviation Regulations 602.02 and 602.03, plus conditions in Air India’s Foreign Air Operator Certificate.
Transport Canada Air India Probe Launched
Transport Canada labelled the incident serious. The letter, signed by official Ajit Oommen, requested Air India conduct a full investigation under its safety management system. It demanded findings and preventive measures by 26 January 2026.
“It is likely that enforcement action will be pursued by the RCMP, and by TCCA,” the letter stated. Air India must detail corrective steps to avoid recurrence. Failure could lead to further penalties.
Air India responded promptly. A spokesperson said: “In accordance with safety protocols, an alternate pilot was rostered to operate the flight, resulting in the delay. Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to its passengers and is fully cooperating with the local authorities.”
The airline added: “The pilot has been taken off flying duties during the enquiry. Air India maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards any violation of applicable rules and regulations. Pending the outcome of the investigation, any confirmed violation will attract strict disciplinary action in line with company policy.”
This transport canada air india probe highlights regulatory oversight in international operations. South Asian aviation experts note such incidents erode passenger confidence, especially for diaspora communities using Air India for travel between Canada and India.
Vancouver Airport Pilot Under Influence Concerns
The vancouver airport pilot under influence episode involved standard pre-flight checks. Authorities acted on a tip, leading to RCMP involvement. The tests confirmed alcohol presence, though specific levels remain undisclosed.
Vancouver International Airport handles numerous international flights, including Air India’s routes. This marks a rare but significant lapse for the carrier. Canadian rules prohibit crew from operating under influence, mirroring global standards.
In South Asia, similar regulations apply. India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation enforces strict guidelines. The air india pilot alcohol incident may influence regional policies, as South Asian carriers face increased international scrutiny.
Background
Air India has faced multiple safety issues recently. On 29 December 2025, India’s DGCA issued warning notices to four Air India pilots. These flagged serious safety concerns related to regulatory compliance and flight crew decision-making.
The notices, dated 29 December, followed inspections. They highlighted repeated snags and system degradations. DGCA demanded responses within 15 days. This comes amid broader challenges for Air India, including a June 2025 crash in Ahmedabad that killed 260 people.
That tragedy prompted reviews of the airline’s operations. Air India, jointly owned by Tata Group and Singapore Airlines, has invested in fleet upgrades. However, incidents like the vancouver airport pilot under influence case raise questions about crew training and monitoring.
South Asian aviation growth has surged, with India as a key hub. Events such as the air india pilot failed breathalyser test could impact bilateral agreements. Canada-India routes serve over 1 million passengers annually, many from South Asian origins.
Regulators in both nations emphasise zero-tolerance. The transport canada air india probe aligns with efforts to harmonise standards. Past cases, like a 2023 Air India pilot suspension for similar reasons, show recurring issues.
What’s Next
Air India must submit its report by 26 January 2026. Transport Canada will review findings before deciding on enforcement. Possible outcomes include fines, certificate restrictions, or crew retraining mandates.
The RCMP may pursue charges against the pilot. Air India’s internal enquiry could result in dismissal if violations confirm. DGCA may impose additional measures, given its recent warnings.
South Asian stakeholders watch closely. Enhanced protocols could emerge, benefiting regional air travel safety. The air india pilot alcohol incident may prompt industry-wide audits.
Authorities expect full compliance. This resolution will shape future handling of such breaches. The air india pilot alcohol incident serves as a reminder of aviation’s unforgiving nature, where lapses endanger lives.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, January 2nd, 2026
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