A pilot operating an Air India flight from Vancouver to Delhi was removed from duty after failing alcohol tests conducted before takeoff, prompting Canadian authorities to order a formal investigation. Canada’s transport regulator described the incident as serious and has asked the airline to submit detailed findings and preventive measures.
The incident occurred on December 23 at Vancouver International Airport, where two breathalyser tests conducted by Canadian police found the pilot unfit to operate the aircraft. As a result, the scheduled flight experienced a last-minute delay, and an alternate pilot was assigned to ensure passenger safety.
Transport Canada formally communicated its concerns to Air India, stating that enforcement action may follow depending on the investigation’s outcome. The regulator has requested a full report and details of corrective steps by January 26 to prevent similar incidents. Officials emphasized that aviation safety standards must be strictly upheld.
Air India confirmed that Canadian authorities raised concerns about the pilot’s fitness for duty but did not disclose specific test results. The airline stated that the pilot has been taken off flying duties during the inquiry and reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy toward violations of aviation rules. The carrier added that confirmed breaches would lead to strict disciplinary action under company regulations.
The aircraft involved was a Boeing 777, capable of carrying up to 344 passengers on long-haul routes. While no passengers were harmed, the incident has intensified scrutiny of Air India’s operational safety practices. The airline has remained under close observation since a fatal Boeing Dreamliner crash in June killed 260 people, triggering widespread regulatory reviews.
India’s aviation regulator has since flagged multiple safety lapses at Air India, including concerns related to pilot decision-making and regulatory compliance. Recently, warning notices were issued to four pilots for accepting aircraft with known technical issues and system degradations. These developments have added pressure on the airline to strengthen internal oversight.
Earlier this year, India proposed stricter alcohol testing rules for flight crew, including permanent license cancellation after repeated violations. Current regulations already require post-flight alcohol testing at the first port of landing. Meanwhile, Canadian aviation rules prohibit pilots from operating aircraft within 12 hours of alcohol consumption.
The latest incident highlights growing international scrutiny of airline safety standards and crew accountability. Authorities in both countries are expected to monitor the investigation closely, as regulators push for stronger enforcement to protect passenger safety.
