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Air India Pilot Detained in Vancouver for Suspected Alcohol Impairment

Vancouver, Canada – An Air India pilot was detained at Vancouver International Airport on December 23rd after being suspected of being under the influence of alcohol before a scheduled flight to Delhi. The incident caused a delay in the departure of Flight AI186.

Reports indicate that a duty-free store employee alerted Canadian authorities after either witnessing the pilot consume alcohol or detecting the odor on him. A subsequent breathalyzer test reportedly confirmed the suspicion, leading to the pilot’s detention.

Air India confirmed the delay and the pilot’s removal from the flight but stated that Canadian authorities had raised concerns regarding his “fitness for duty,” leading to further inquiry. “Flight AI186 from Vancouver to Delhi on 23 December 2025 experienced a last-minute delay after one of the cockpit crew members was offloaded prior to departure. Canadian authorities raised concerns regarding the pilot’s fitness for duty, following which the crew member was taken for further inquiry. In accordance with safety protocols, an alternate pilot was rostered to operate the flight, resulting in the delay.”

The airline expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to passengers and assured full cooperation with local authorities. The pilot has been taken off flying duties pending the outcome of the investigation.

“Air India maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards any violation of applicable rules and regulations. Pending the outcome of the investigation, any confirmed violation will attract strict disciplinary action in line with company policy. Safety remains Air India’s highest priority at all times,” the airline stated.

This incident comes as India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued a show-cause notice to another Air India cockpit crew for alleged compliance lapses on flights between Delhi and Tokyo, seeking an explanation within two weeks.

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