Air India pilot removed in Vancouver over fitness concerns, flight AI-186 delayed; backup crew deployed, DGCA notified, investigation underway.
Concerns over an Air India pilot’s suitability to fly the aircraft led to his removal from duty shortly before an international flight at Vancouver airport. The incident happened on December 23, 2025, when Air India aircraft AI-186 was supposed to take off for Delhi from Vancouver.
During pre-departure checks, Canadian airport officials raised concerns about the pilot’s health and brought attention to the problem. The pilot was held after being separated for additional interrogation due to concerns over his behavior. Air India promptly offloaded the pilot and deployed a backup crew member in accordance with safety procedures, which caused a brief flight delay.
Alternate Crew Deployed, T Removed
The ultra-long-haul flight reportedly involved several pilots operating in shifts. To minimize passenger inconvenience, Air India scheduled a replacement pilot after the pilot was offloaded. After departing around two hours behind schedule, the aircraft continued on to Vienna, where a new crew took control for the subsequent flight to Delhi.
According to sources close to Air India, the airline is completely assisting Canadian authorities. The concerned pilot has been removed from flying responsibilities pending the conclusion of the investigation.
Fitness Concerns Were Voiced by Canadian Authorities
A duty-free employee at Vancouver airport observed strange behavior involving the pilot during a purchase at the store, according to a source reported by The Times of India. After the incident was reported to Canadian authorities, the pilot was put through additional scrutiny. After failing the test, he was later placed under arrest for investigation.
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After Canadian authorities expressed worries about a cockpit crew member’s suitability for duty, Air India stated in an official statement that the delay was due to the crew member’s offloading. According to the airline, an alternate pilot was scheduled in accordance with safety procedures.
DGCA Notified, Investigation Underway
Air India reaffirmed that it is providing local authorities with its full cooperation and apologized for any inconvenience the passengers may have had. The airline stated that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India’s aviation authority, has been informed of the issue and is looking into it.
The airline reiterated that passenger safety is still its top concern and emphasized that it has a zero-tolerance policy for breaking safety laws and regulations.