New Delhi: In a major embarrassment for Air India, a pilot had to be offloaded before take-off in Vancouver recently after Canadian authorities raised concern about ‘fitness for duty’, the Tata-owned airline said on Thursday.
The incident led to delayed departure of flight AI-186 from Vancouver to Delhi.
“Flight AI186 from Vancouver to Delhi on 23 December 2025 experienced a last-minute delay after one of the cockpit crew members was offloaded prior to departure. Canadian authorities raised concerns regarding the pilot’s fitness for duty, following which the crew member was taken for further inquiry. In accordance with safety protocols, an alternate pilot was rostered to operate the flight, resulting in the delay,” an Air India spokesperson said, without specifying the exact issue with the pilot.
However, India Today reported that a staffer at Vancouver airport allegedly saw the pilot ‘sipping on wine’ or buying liquor, and complained to the authorities citing ‘alcohol smell’. A breathalyser test was conducted, which the pilot failed. He was thereafter offloaded from the aircraft.
Air India said that the pilot has been taken off duty and the company is cooperating with the authorities.
“Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to its passengers and is fully cooperating with the local authorities. The pilot has been taken off flying duties during the process of the enquiry. 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. Safety remains Air India’s highest priority at all times,” the statement added.
Passengers were provided with refreshments and support during the wait, and the airline assured them that their safety and comfort remained a priority throughout the incident.
