New Delhi: Canada’s transport regulator has ordered Air India to launch a formal investigation after a pilot reportedly arrived for duty under the influence of alcohol and failed two consecutive breathalyzer tests at Vancouver International Airport.

The incident, which occurred on 23 December, led to a last-minute delay of the Vancouver-to-Delhi flight. According to a source familiar with the matter, Canadian police conducted the tests after the pilot was asked to leave the aircraft.

In an official statement, Air India confirmed that an alternative pilot was eventually brought in to operate the flight. The airline emphasised its "zero-tolerance policy" regarding safety violations and confirmed the pilot has been suspended pending the outcome of an internal enquiry.

"Any confirmed violation will attract strict disciplinary action in line with company policy," the airline stated.

Transport Canada has described the incident as a "serious matter." In a letter sent by official Ajit Oommen, the regulator requested that Air India submit its investigative findings and a detailed preventative action plan by 26 January. Authorities indicated they are likely to pursue further enforcement action against the carrier.

A Period of Intense Scrutiny

This latest scandal comes at a time of heightened pressure for Air India and the Indian aviation sector. The airline, now owned by the Tata Group and Singapore Airlines, has faced a series of safety challenges:

The June Disaster: India remains under global scrutiny following the catastrophic crash of a Boeing Dreamliner on 12 June, which claimed 260 lives.

Regulatory Warnings: Just this week, India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued warning notices to four other Air India pilots for "serious safety concerns."

Systemic Failures: The DGCA alleged that pilots accepted a Boeing 787 for long-haul operations last year despite knowing the aircraft had "repeated snags" and "existing systems degradations."