Overview
- Transport Canada labeled the case a serious matter and requested an investigation under Air India’s Safety Management System with findings and corrective actions due by January 26.
- Two breathalyzer tests conducted by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police at Vancouver International Airport confirmed alcohol in the pilot’s system and that he was unfit for duty, according to the regulator’s letter.
- The pilot was offloaded from Flight AI186 on December 23, causing a short delay before an alternate pilot operated the Vancouver–Vienna leg and another crew continued to Delhi.
- Transport Canada cited contraventions of Canadian Aviation Regulations 602.02 and 602.03 as well as conditions of Air India’s Foreign Air Operator Certificate, with possible enforcement action noted.
- Air India removed the pilot from flying duties, launched an internal inquiry, notified India’s DGCA, and multiple reports say the pilot was detained in Canada before being sent back to India.