An Air India pilot was arrested at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) on December 23, 2025, after a "report of concern" indicated the crew member may have been under the influence of alcohol while preparing for duty. The Richmond Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) confirmed the arrest followed an investigation into the matter.

The incident led to a delay of several hours for Air India Flight AI186, which was scheduled to depart from Vancouver to Delhi. The flight eventually departed safely after a replacement pilot was found. Air India confirmed that the pilot was "offloaded prior to departure" after Canadian authorities raised concerns about his fitness for duty.

Transport Canada has since warned Air India that it could face suspension or cancellation of its flight authorizations if it fails to comply with regulations regarding alcohol consumption. Canadian aviation regulations stipulate that pilots and crew members must not perform their duties within 12 hours of consuming alcohol or while under its influence. Airlines also cannot assign crew deemed unfit for duty.

According to a letter from Transport Canada to Air India dated December 24, 2025, two breathalyzer tests conducted by the RCMP confirmed that the pilot was unfit for duty after being advised to leave the aircraft. Transport Canada has requested that Air India conduct a full review under its safety management system and provide details of corrective actions by January 26, 2026.

Sources indicate the pilot had a layover in Vienna and reportedly purchased alcohol at a Vancouver Duty Free shop before boarding the flight. CCTV footage reportedly assisted police in locating the pilot on the Air India flight.

Air India has stated that it is cooperating fully with local authorities and has removed the pilot from flying duties pending the investigation's outcome. The airline maintains a "zero-tolerance policy" towards any violation of applicable rules and regulations and has stated that strict disciplinary action will be taken if a violation is confirmed.

Transport Canada has communicated with Air India and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation of India to ensure appropriate follow-up actions are taken. As the State of the Operator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation of India has primary responsibility for regulatory oversight of Air India.