Overview
- Air India confirmed a cockpit crew member was offloaded from flight AI186 on December 23 in Vancouver, with a replacement pilot rostered and the Vancouver–Delhi service departing about two hours late via Vienna.
- The intervention followed a report from a duty-free staffer who raised concerns after observing the pilot either sampling wine or smelling of alcohol while purchasing a bottle, with CCTV used to identify the crew member.
- Canadian authorities administered breath tests, which multiple outlets report the pilot failed before he was detained for questioning, though Air India has not independently confirmed intoxication.
- Times Now reported a Canadian letter citing two RCMP breathalyser tests indicating the pilot was under the influence, potential regulatory enforcement, and a two‑day custody period before return to India.
- Air India says it is cooperating with authorities, has taken the pilot off flying duties, notified the DGCA, and will impose strict disciplinary action if violations are confirmed, with internal and regulatory probes in progress.