Canada Seeks Probe After Air India Pilot Allegedly Reported for Duty Under Alcohol Influence

Post by : Saif

Aviation safety has once again come under focus after Canada’s transport regulator asked Air India to investigate an incident involving a pilot who allegedly reported for duty under the influence of alcohol. The case, described by Canadian authorities as a “serious matter,” has raised questions about safety checks and discipline in international airline operations.

According to a source familiar with the matter, the incident took place on December 23 at Vancouver International Airport. The pilot was scheduled to operate an Air India flight from Vancouver to Delhi. Before departure, concerns were raised about the pilot’s condition, and Canadian police carried out breathalyzer tests. The pilot reportedly failed two such tests and was asked to leave the aircraft.

As a result, the flight was delayed at the last minute. Air India later arranged for an alternate pilot to operate the flight, ensuring passengers were able to travel safely. In a statement, the airline confirmed the delay and said the pilot involved was immediately taken off flying duties while an internal investigation is underway.

Canada’s transport regulator, Transport Canada, has written to Air India calling the incident a serious safety issue. The regulator has asked the airline to submit its investigation findings and explain what steps it will take to prevent similar incidents in the future. Air India has reportedly been given until January 26 to respond.

Air India stressed that it follows a strict zero-tolerance policy when it comes to violations of aviation rules. The airline said that if the investigation confirms any wrongdoing, strong disciplinary action will be taken in line with company rules.

The timing of this incident has added to existing pressure on India’s aviation sector. The industry has been under close watch since a deadly plane crash in June last year killed 260 people. Since then, India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has pointed out several safety concerns at Air India.

In recent days, the DGCA also issued warning notices to four Air India pilots over separate safety-related issues. These notices said the pilots had agreed to operate an aircraft despite being aware of repeated technical problems. The aircraft involved was a Boeing 787 used for long-distance flights.

Air India, now owned by the Tata Group along with Singapore Airlines, is in the middle of a major transformation after decades under government ownership. While the airline has promised better standards and stricter controls, incidents like this show how important strong oversight and clear accountability remain.

For passengers, trust in airline safety is built on the belief that strict rules are always followed. Regulators in both Canada and India are now watching closely to ensure that lessons are learned and that such incidents are not repeated.

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