Air India Pilot Detained at Vancouver Airport Over Alcohol Concerns, Delhi Flight Delayed

Airport authorities subsequently subjected the pilot to a breath analyser test, which he reportedly failed

Digital Desk: An Air India pilot was detained at Vancouver International Airport in Canada last week after authorities raised concerns that he may have been under the influence of alcohol while preparing to operate a scheduled flight. The incident occurred shortly before boarding, leading to a delay in the flight’s departure.

As per reports, the pilot was assigned to operate a Delhi-bound Air India flight on 23^rd December , just ahead of the Christmas holiday. The situation came to light after a staff member at a duty-free store inside the Vancouver airport reportedly noticed the pilot either consuming alcohol or detected the smell of alcohol while he was making a purchase. The staff member alerted Canadian authorities, prompting immediate action.

Airport authorities subsequently subjected the pilot to a breath analyser test, which he reportedly failed. Following the test, the pilot was detained for further inquiry and was immediately removed from duty.

In an official statement, Air India confirmed the incident, stating that the pilot was offloaded after Canadian authorities expressed concerns regarding his “fitness for duty.” The airline said Flight AI186 from Vancouver to Delhi experienced a last-minute delay after one of the cockpit crew members was taken off the flight in accordance with established safety protocols.

“An alternate pilot was rostered to operate the flight, resulting in the delay,” the airline said, adding that passenger safety remains its top priority. Air India also expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to passengers and confirmed that it is fully cooperating with local authorities during the ongoing inquiry.

Meanwhile, it has been learned that the pilot has been taken off flying duties pending the outcome of the investigation.