An Air India pilot was offloaded from a flight in Canada after Canadian authorities flagged concerns over alcohol consumption, leading to a delay for passengers travelling on the airline’s Vancouver to Delhi service. The incident occurred at Vancouver International Airport on December 23, 2025, and involved flight AI186.
Canadian officials intervened after airport staff raised an alert over a suspected smell of alcohol from the pilot, identified as Captain Saurabh Kumar. According to reports, an airport employee claimed to have seen the pilot either sipping wine or purchasing liquor, following which authorities were informed.
AIR INDIA CONFIRMS PILOT OFFLOADED IN VANCOUVER
Air India on Friday confirmed that flight AI186 from Vancouver to Delhi on December 23, 2025, was delayed after one of the cockpit crew members was offloaded just before departure following concerns raised by Canadian authorities over the pilot’s fitness for duty.
In a statement, the airline said the crew member was taken for further enquiry after authorities intervened. “In accordance with safety protocols, an alternate pilot was rostered to operate the flight, resulting in the delay,” an Air India spokesperson said.
The airline added that it regrets the inconvenience caused to passengers and is fully cooperating with local authorities. The pilot has been taken off flying duties during the enquiry process.
“Pending the outcome of the investigation, any confirmed violation will attract strict disciplinary action in line with company policy,” the spokesperson said.
Air India reiterated that passenger safety remains its highest priority.
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Published By:
Sonali Verma
Published On:
Jan 2, 2026
