Air India Pilot Pulled From Vancouver Flight After Failing Alcohol Test; Probe Underway

Canada’s transport regulator has asked Air India to investigate an incident in which a pilot was removed from a Vancouver–Delhi flight after breathalyser tests showed he was under the influence of alcohol before take-off. The pilot was declared unfit for duty following two tests conducted by Canadian police at Vancouver International Airport, and Transport Canada has termed the episode a “serious matter,” indicating that enforcement action may follow.

Air India confirmed that the December 23 flight was delayed after the incident and that an alternate pilot was assigned to operate the Boeing 777 service. The airline said the pilot has been taken off flying duties pending an inquiry and reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward rule violations. Transport Canada said it is coordinating with Air India and India’s aviation regulator to ensure appropriate follow-up measures, while a formal response detailing corrective steps has been requested by January 26.

The episode comes at a time when Air India is already facing heightened regulatory scrutiny following recent safety concerns flagged by India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The regulator has issued warning notices to several pilots over decision-making and compliance issues and is considering stricter alcohol-testing rules, including permanent license cancellation after repeated violations. Canadian law prohibits pilots from operating aircraft within 12 hours of consuming alcohol, with penalties ranging from fines to administrative sanctions.

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