- By Ajeet Kumar
- Thu, 01 Jan 2026 12:56 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
An Air India pilot was detained after he was found under the influence of alcohol just before operating a long-haul Boeing 777 flight from Canada to India. This prompted the Canadian authorities to start a probe, resulting in delaying the journey. The report came days after an Air India pilot slapped a passenger, resulting in fatal injury.
What happened next?
According to a report by The Times of India, the incident occurred at Vancouver International Airport when the pilot was scheduled to operate Air India’s Vancouver-to-Delhi service, with a planned stopover in Vienna. Several media outlets reported that airport staff noticed signs suggesting the pilot may have consumed alcohol and alerted authorities. A breathalyser test was subsequently conducted, which the pilot failed.
Following the failed test, Air India arranged for a replacement pilot, resulting in a delay of approximately two hours before the aircraft was cleared for departure. The flight later continued as scheduled with a fresh crew.
Air India responds to chaos
Air India said it regretted the inconvenience caused to passengers and reiterated that safety is its highest priority. The airline confirmed that the pilot has been taken off flying duties pending the outcome of an internal investigation. The matter has also been reported to aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which has initiated its own probe.
“The pilot was flown to Delhi a couple of days later and is being probed. The issue has been reported to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which is also examining the same,” the report added, citing people in the know.
What are alcohol rules for pilot?
Under aviation safety norms, pilots are prohibited from consuming alcohol within a stipulated period before reporting for duty. Any violation can attract strict disciplinary action, including suspension or termination of licence.