Air India is facing scrutiny after a pilot was removed from duty in Vancouver on December 23, 2025, following concerns raised about his fitness to fly. The incident, which led to a delay of Air India flight AI186 from Vancouver to Delhi via Vienna, is now under investigation by both the airline and India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

The series of events unfolded when a staff member at a duty-free store at Vancouver Airport reported suspicions about the pilot's condition to Canadian authorities. According to reports, the staff member either noticed the pilot smelling of alcohol while purchasing a bottle or observed him sipping wine offered as part of festive promotions.

Following the report, Canadian authorities intervened and administered a breathalyzer test to the pilot, which he failed. Consequently, the pilot was detained and taken off flying duties. Air India confirmed that the pilot has been grounded pending the outcome of the probe. The airline has also stated that the matter will be handled sternly, and strict disciplinary action will follow if the violation is confirmed.

To minimize disruption to passengers, Air India arranged for a replacement pilot, which resulted in a delay of approximately two hours for the flight's departure from Vancouver. Upon arrival in Vienna, a different crew took over the onward leg to Delhi to comply with duty-time regulations and flight safety standards. The detained pilot was subsequently flown back to Delhi and is currently under investigation.

Air India has issued a statement expressing regret for the inconvenience caused to passengers and affirmed its full cooperation with local authorities. The airline reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards any violation of applicable rules and regulations, emphasizing that safety remains its highest priority. Pending the outcome of the investigation, any confirmed violation will attract strict disciplinary action in line with company policy.

The incident has sparked discussions on aviation safety forums and social media platforms, with many users highlighting the risks associated with alcohol consumption by operating crew and emphasizing the importance of enforcement mechanisms to prevent such occurrences. The DGCA is also independently examining the case, reviewing safety concerns related to fitness for duty while Air India continues its internal inquiry. The pilot was assigned to operate the Boeing 777 aircraft. The Vancouver–Delhi flight, routed via Vienna, is an ultra-long-haul service that requires four pilots operating in two rotating sets of captain and co-pilot in line with duty-time regulations.