Canada’s transport regulator has asked Air India to investigate an incident involving one of its pilots who reported for duty while allegedly under the influence of alcohol before a flight from Vancouver to Delhi. Transport Canada described the matter as serious and asked the airline to submit findings and preventive steps by January 26.

The episode occurred on December 23, 2025, at Vancouver International Airport. Canadian police conducted two breathalyzer tests that indicated the pilot was unfit for duty. As a result, the pilot was removed from flying duties and an alternate crew member operated the Boeing 777 flight. Reuters

Air India confirmed that the flight — designated AI186 — experienced a last-minute delay while the airline arranged for a replacement pilot. In a statement, the airline said it has a zero-tolerance policy for rule violations and that the affected pilot remains off duty pending the outcome of the investigation.

🚨 Transport Canada Labels Incident ‘Serious Matter’

Transport Canada’s letter to Air India, signed by official Ajit Oommen, described the situation as a serious breach of aviation rules. The regulator said it expects a full report detailing what happened and how such incidents can be prevented in the future.

Canadian aviation regulations strictly prohibit pilots from flying within 12 hours of consuming alcohol or while under its influence. The policy aims to protect passenger safety and maintain high standards of operational fitness.

Officials in Canada may pursue enforcement action against the pilot or airline if regulators determine that rules were broken. Transport Canada asked Air India to provide its report by January 26 so authorities can review preventive measures and next steps.

📊 Safety Context and Wider Scrutiny

This incident comes amid heightened scrutiny of Air India’s safety record following other operational concerns. In June 2025, a Boeing Dreamliner operated by the airline crashed, killing 260 people and prompting investigations. India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has since highlighted several safety lapses at the airline and proposed tighter rules for pilot alcohol testing.

The DGCA’s earlier proposals include measures that could force pilots to lose their license permanently after three positive alcohol tests. Canada’s request for an internal probe adds to global pressure on airlines to maintain strict compliance with safety norms.

Air India said it will cooperate fully with Canadian authorities and ensure that its internal investigation meets the expectations outlined by Transport Canada. The airline also emphasised that passenger safety remains its top priority.

🧑‍✈️ What Happens Next

Air India’s internal investigation must outline:

• The cause of the pilot’s condition
• The exact sequence of events
• Preventive steps to stop similar incidents

Transport Canada will review the report to decide on possible enforcement action. Meanwhile, aviation regulators around the world — including India’s DGCA — continue to monitor events related to pilot fitness and safety compliance.