Transport Canada warns Air India on drinking rules after pilot’s Vancouver arrest
VANCOUVER, British Columbia — An Air India pilot was taken into custody at Vancouver International Airport last week while preparing for a flight, prompting Canada’s transportation agency to caution the airline about the potential loss of its flight privileges if it failed to adhere to alcohol consumption regulations.
Transport Canada disclosed in a statement on Friday that the incident occurred on Dec. 23. The agency stated that it would collaborate with Air India and Indian aviation authorities to ensure that appropriate measures were taken in response.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police reported that the pilot’s arrest was made following a “concerning report” involving a member of the airline crew.
Law enforcement officials indicated that an investigation is currently underway, with no additional details being provided at this time.
An airport spokesperson confirmed that the detained pilot was preparing for Air India’s daily flight from Vancouver to Delhi, which experienced a significant delay but ultimately departed safely.
Flight data from FlightRadar24 displayed that the Air India flight from Vancouver to Delhi via Vienna on Dec. 23 was originally scheduled for a 3 p.m. departure, but did not take off until 10:02 p.m.
Air India did not provide an immediate response to requests for comment.
Transport Canada emphasized in its statement that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation of India holds primary responsibility for overseeing Air India’s compliance with regulations.
The statement reiterated that Canadian aviation regulations prohibit pilots and other crew members from operating within 12 hours of consuming alcohol or while under its influence.
Furthermore, airlines are prohibited from assigning duties to crew members who are unfit for service.
“Failure to comply with these regulations could lead to the suspension or revocation of a Canadian Aviation Document under the Aeronautics Act,” the statement warned.
The statement also cautioned that airlines could face legal and other repercussions for non-compliance.
