Fri Jan 02 06:50:52 UTC 2026: Summary:

On December 23, 2025, an Air India pilot was found to be under the influence of alcohol by Canadian police at Vancouver International Airport after failing two breathalyzer tests. The incident led to a last-minute flight delay, with an alternate pilot brought in. Transport Canada has labelled the incident a “serious matter,” requesting Air India to investigate and provide preventative measures by January 26, 2026. Air India has taken the pilot off flying duties and assured a zero-tolerance policy towards violations. The incident follows increased scrutiny of Air India’s safety record, including recent warning notices issued to four pilots by India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation for “serious safety concerns.”

News Article:

Air India Pilot Grounded After Failing Alcohol Tests in Canada

New Delhi, January 2, 2026 – An Air India pilot was removed from duty after failing two breathalyzer tests at Vancouver International Airport on December 23, 2025. Canadian police conducted the tests after the pilot was suspected of reporting for duty under the influence of alcohol, causing a delay to a flight bound for Delhi.

Transport Canada has called the incident a “serious matter” and has requested Air India to conduct a thorough investigation, providing its findings and detailing preventative measures by January 26, 2026.

“The pilot has been taken off flying duties during the process of enquiry,” Air India stated. “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.”

The incident comes amid heightened scrutiny of Air India’s safety record. Just this week, India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued warning notices to four Air India pilots, citing “serious safety concerns” related to regulatory compliance and flight crew decision-making. The DGCA found the pilots accepted a Boeing 787 for operation despite being aware of repeated mechanical issues. The Boeing 787 is used for long-haul flights. The airline has been facing increased scrutiny since the tragic crash of a Boeing Dreamliner killed 260 people on June 12, 2025.

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