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Air India Pilot Detained in Canada Over Alcohol Concerns
1 Jan
Summary
- A pilot was detained in Vancouver due to suspected alcohol influence.
- The incident caused a significant delay for a flight to Delhi.
- Air India has a zero-tolerance policy and has suspended the pilot.
A flight from Vancouver to Delhi on December 23, 2025, experienced a substantial delay when Canadian authorities detained a cockpit crew member over concerns about his fitness for duty. The pilot was reportedly offloaded after a duty-free staffer alerted authorities upon noticing an alcohol smell. He subsequently failed a breathalyzer test.
Air India has launched an investigation into the incident, emphasizing its zero-tolerance policy for rule violations. The airline confirmed the pilot has been removed from flying duties pending the inquiry's outcome and assured passengers of its commitment to safety. This action follows recent safety concerns raised by the DGCA regarding another Air India pilot's conduct.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation had previously issued a show-cause notice to an Air India pilot for accepting an aircraft with repeated snags and system degradation, including a reported smell of smoke. This dual focus highlights ongoing scrutiny of Air India's operational safety standards.
