Pilot found tipsy in Vancouver, act by Jan 26: Canada to Air India

NEW DELHI: Canada has told Air India that one of its pilots was found tipsy just before operating a flight on Dec 23, 2025, violating the countrys laws, and that the airline should investigate the case and inform it of action taken by Jan 26, 2026.

Transport Canada sent this communication to AI a day after the pilot failed the breathalyser (BA) test and asked it to take corrective action under its safety management system to prevent any such recurrence. This was first reported by TOI on Jan 1.

Taking a serious view of the matter, AI has sought details of the BA test from Canada, including the level of alcohol found in the test, and has informed DGCA.

We were advised by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) that Captain *** reported for duty on Air India Fight AI 186 on Dec 23, 2025, while under the influence of alcohol, and unfit for duty. Two BA tests conducted by the RCMP at Vancouver International Airport confirmed this after he was advised to leave the aircraft. This incident indicates a contravention of Canadian Aviation Regulations by the operator (AI) and the crew member... as well as conditions outlined in Air Indias Foreign Air Operator Certificate (FAOC 1946) issued by Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA). It is likely that enforcement action will be pursued by the RCMP, and by TCCA, says a Dec 24 letter from Transport Canada to AI.

One of the conditions in AIs FAOC violated is that foreign air operator shall conduct a safe operation. The letter adds: “In light of this, we request Air India to: conduct a thorough review and investigation under your safety management system and p rovide details of corrective actions taken to prevent any such recurrence. Please submit your response by Jan 26, 2026, outlining your findings and measures implemented and/or undertaken,” it adds.

Due to closure of Pakistan airspace after Operation Sindoor, AI North America ultra long hauls now make a midway fuelling stop. AI 186 was to be operated by two sets of pilots - a captain and co-pilot in each set - from Vancouver to Vienna. From the Austrian capital, another set would have flown it to Delhi.

This pilot, who had a layover in Vienna, was reportedly buying alcohol from Vancouver Duty Free... The pilot was boarding from Canada and alighting in Austria, both foreign stations where most probably no BA checks would have been conducted. However a staffer at duty free smelt alcohol on his breath and informed police. Using CCTV, the police traced him to the AI flight , said sources.

Pilots dont have alcohol at least 12 hours before flying. In case someone has not been able to do so, they should refuse to operate a flight on medical grounds. Refusing the flight will save your job, your licence, and your career, said a senior captain.

In a statement on Wednesday, AI had said: AI 186 from Vancouver to Delhi on Dec 23, 2025 experienced a last-minute delay after one of the cockpit crew members was offloaded prior to departure. Canadian authorities raised concerns regarding the pilots fitness for duty, following which the crew member was taken for further inquiry.

Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to its passengers and is fully cooperating with the local authorities. The pilot has been taken off flying duties during the process of 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. Safety remains Air India’s highest priority at all times,” the airline statement had added.

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