Vancouver | January 2, 2026

Transport Canada has raised a serious safety concern involving Air India, after a complaint from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) alleged that one of the airline’s pilots was under the influence of alcohol prior to duty at Vancouver International Airport.

The incident involved Air India Flight AI186, scheduled from Vancouver to Delhi via Vienna on December 23, 2025, which experienced a last-minute delay when the cockpit crew member in question was offloaded before departure.

Details of the Incident

According to an Air India spokesperson, Canadian authorities flagged concerns regarding the pilot’s fitness for duty, following which the crew member was taken for further inquiry. In line with safety protocols, an alternate pilot was rostered to operate the flight, causing the delay.

The airline expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to passengers and stated that it is fully cooperating with local authorities. Meanwhile, the pilot has been suspended from flying duties pending the outcome of the investigation. Air India reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards any violations of aviation rules and regulations, noting that confirmed infractions will lead to strict disciplinary action.

Canadian Authorities’ Findings

Transport Canada sent a letter dated December 24, 2025, to senior Air India officials confirming that two breathalyzer tests conducted by the RCMP found the pilot under the influence of alcohol and unfit for duty.

The letter noted that the incident constitutes a violation of Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs), specifically CARs 602.02 and 602.03, as well as conditions outlined in Air India’s Foreign Air Operator Certificate (FAOC). Transport Canada indicated that enforcement action could be pursued by both the RCMP and Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) if necessary.

The Canadian aviation authority has requested that Air India take corrective steps to prevent any recurrence of such incidents and to ensure compliance with all aviation safety protocols.

Airline Response

Air India stated that the pilot was immediately taken off flying duties and emphasized that the company’s highest priority is passenger safety. The spokesperson also clarified that the airline will implement any required corrective measures pending the final outcome of the investigation.

The incident highlights the critical importance of crew fitness checks and adherence to aviation safety regulations, especially for international flights operating under foreign jurisdiction.

Flight AI186, which carries passengers between Vancouver and Delhi, was safely operated with the replacement pilot, but the episode has raised safety and regulatory concerns for the airline in Canada.