An Air India pilot was arrested in Vancouver, Canada, after allegedly being found under the influence of alcohol shortly before a flight bound for Delhi was scheduled to depart.
The incident occurred on December 23, 2025, according to Canada’s transport regulator, as reported by CBC News. The pilot was subjected to two breathalyser tests by Canadian police and reportedly failed both, Reuters said.
Canadian aviation authorities described the matter as serious and issued a warning to Air India, stating that the airline could face the loss of its operating authorisations if it fails to comply with Canada’s strict aviation safety regulations.
Under Canadian rules, pilots and cabin crew are prohibited from performing their duties within 12 hours of consuming alcohol or if they are under its influence.
The regulator also said it would work closely with Air India and India’s aviation authority to ensure appropriate follow-up measures are taken. In a letter seen by Reuters, the regulator asked the airline to submit its findings and outline steps taken to prevent similar incidents by January 26, 2026.
In a separate statement, Air India confirmed that the affected flight was delayed at the last minute and an alternate pilot was assigned to operate the service.
The airline said Canadian authorities had raised concerns over the pilot’s fitness for duty, adding that the pilot has since been removed from flying duties while investigations are ongoing.
“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 airline said.
