Ottawa (TDI): Canada’s transport regulator has formally urged Air India to investigate a serious safety incident after one of the airline’s pilots reportedly arrived for duty under the influence of alcohol at Vancouver International Airport late last month.
The episode occurred on December 23, when the pilot in question was scheduled to operate a long-haul flight from Vancouver to Delhi via Vienna.
According to Canadian authorities, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police were alerted to concerns about the pilot’s condition before departure.
Following these concerns, officers administered two separate breathalyser tests at the airport, both of which confirmed the presence of alcohol, rendering him unfit for duty under Canada’s strict aviation regulations.
Transport Canada’s letter to Air India described the matter as a “serious” breach of operational safety standards. The pilot was removed from the flight and an alternate crew member was assigned to operate the aircraft, which experienced a delay.
Read More: Air India Jet Skids Off Runway in Mumbai Amid Heavy Rain
Canadian rules prohibit pilots from flying within 12 hours of consuming alcohol or while under its influence, and violations can lead to enforcement action, including possible suspension or revocation of an airline’s authorization to operate.
In its response, Air India acknowledged the incident and stated that the pilot has been taken off flying duties while an internal inquiry is underway.
The airline emphasized a zero-tolerance stance toward violations of safety and regulatory requirements and said any confirmed breach will lead to strict disciplinary measures in line with company policy.
Air India has been asked to report its findings and outline preventive steps by January 26. The request for a probe comes amid heightened scrutiny of Air India’s operational practices following a deadly Boeing Dreamliner crash in June that claimed 260 lives.
Read More: Amid Crash Aftermath, Bomb Threat Forces Emergency Landing of Air India Flight in Thailand
India’s aviation regulator has also flagged several safety concerns related to the airline, issuing recent warnings to pilots over compliance and decision-making issues.
International aviation standards generally prohibit impaired crew members from operating flights, but events like this highlight the ongoing need for vigilance and robust oversight in global airline operations.
Air India’s forthcoming investigation and the actions it takes in response will be closely watched by both Canadian and Indian aviation authorities.
