Canadian transportation authorities have formally requested Air India to conduct a comprehensive investigation after one of its pilots attempted to report for duty while allegedly under the influence of alcohol at Vancouver International Airport. According to sources familiar with the matter, the pilot failed two consecutive breathalyser tests administered by Canadian law enforcement officials.
The incident occurred on December 23, 2025, when the pilot was scheduled to operate Air India Flight AI185 from Vancouver to Delhi. The individual was removed from the aircraft prior to departure following suspicion of impairment. Transport Canada, the nation’s transportation regulatory body, has characterized the event as a ‘serious matter’ in official correspondence to the airline.
Air India confirmed the occurrence resulted in a last-minute flight delay, necessitating the deployment of an alternate pilot to operate the transcontinental journey. The airline immediately relieved the implicated pilot of all flying duties pending a full investigation. In an official statement, Air India emphasized its ‘zero-tolerance policy toward any violation of applicable rules and regulations,’ noting that confirmed violations would result in strict disciplinary action.
Transport Canada official Ajit Oommen has demanded that Air India submit a detailed report of its findings and outline preventive measures by January 26, 2026. The regulatory body is reportedly considering enforcement actions against the airline.
This incident occurs amid heightened scrutiny of Air India’s safety protocols. India’s aviation regulator recently issued warning notices to four Air India pilots regarding ‘serious safety concerns’ related to regulatory compliance and decision-making processes. These developments follow the tragic June 12, 2025 crash of a Boeing Dreamliner that resulted in 260 fatalities, which prompted increased oversight of the airline’s operations.
Air India, now jointly owned by Tata Group and Singapore Airlines after being privatized in 2022, faces mounting pressure to demonstrate improved safety standards and operational compliance across its international network.