Air India Pilot Found Drunk In Canada, Fails Breathalyser Test

Canadian aviation authorities have accused an Air India pilot of reporting for duty under the influence of alcohol at Vancouver International Airport.

According to Transport Canada, the incident took place on December 23, 2025, when the pilot was scheduled to operate Air India flight AI186 from Vancouver to Vienna.

Concerns were raised about the captain’s fitness to fly, following which he was asked to step away from the aircraft, reported TOI.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) were called in, and two breathalyser tests were conducted at the airport. Both tests reportedly confirmed the presence of alcohol in the pilot’s system. Based on these results, the pilot was declared unfit for duty.

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In a formal letter sent to Air India’s management, Transport Canada said the incident points to violations of Canadian Aviation Regulations.

Authorities flagged breaches under Regulation 602.02, which applies to both the airline and the crew member, and Regulation 602.03, which applies to the pilot.

The letter also mentioned a violation of conditions under Air India’s Foreign Air Operator Certificate issued by Canadian regulators.

Canadian officials warned that enforcement action could be taken by both the RCMP and Transport Canada Civil Aviation. This could include legal steps as well as regulatory penalties, depending on the outcome of the investigation.

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Transport Canada has directed Air India to carry out a detailed internal inquiry under its Safety Management System.

The airline has been asked to explain how the incident occurred and to outline corrective measures to prevent such cases in the future.

Air India has been given a deadline of January 26, 2026, to submit its response and findings to Canadian authorities.

(With inputs from TOI)