Transport Canada Investigates Air India Pilot for Alcohol at Vancouver

A Canadian aviation regulator has launched an investigation into an Air India pilot who reported for duty under the influence of alcohol at Vancouver International Airport, leading to the delay of a flight to Delhi on December 23, 2025.

The incident involved the captain of Air India Flight AI186, who was removed from the aircraft after airport staff raised concerns about his fitness for duty. According to a person familiar with the matter, the pilot failed two breathalyzer tests administered by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police at the airport. Transport Canada, the country's transport ministry, described the episode as a serious violation of Canadian Aviation Regulations in a letter dated December 24, 2025, sent to Air India officials. The letter cited breaches of specific rules on fitness for duty and conditions in the airline's foreign air operator certificate. Authorities are expected to pursue enforcement action, potentially including regulatory penalties or legal measures.

Air India confirmed the last-minute delay in a statement, noting that the cockpit crew member was offloaded just before departure following intervention by Canadian authorities. An alternate pilot was...