Overview
- In a Dec. 24 letter, Transport Canada directed Air India to investigate the Dec. 23 incident under its Safety Management System and report corrective actions by Jan. 26.
- Authorities say the RCMP administered two breathalyser tests at Vancouver International Airport that confirmed the pilot was under the influence, prompting his removal from flight AI186.
- The letter cites potential breaches of Canadian Aviation Regulations 602.02 and 602.03 and conditions of Air India’s Foreign Air Operator Certificate, noting enforcement action is likely.
- Air India rostered a replacement pilot, and the Boeing 777 departed later for Vienna, where a fresh crew operated the onward leg to Delhi.
- The pilot has been taken off flying duties pending the inquiry, and media report he was detained for two days and then returned to India as India’s DGCA reviews the case.