Air India Pilot Arrested at Vancouver Airport: What You Need to Know

Incident at Vancouver International Airport

Vancouver: Last week, a pilot from Air India was taken into custody at Vancouver International Airport while getting ready for a flight. Canada's transportation authority has cautioned the airline about potential loss of flight permissions if it fails to adhere to alcohol consumption regulations.

Transport Canada confirmed in a statement on Friday that the event occurred on December 23, and they plan to collaborate with Air India and Indian aviation officials to ensure that suitable follow-up measures are implemented.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police reported that the arrest followed a 'report of concern' regarding a crew member.

An ongoing investigation is in place, and no additional details will be disclosed at this time.

According to an airport spokesperson, the pilot was preparing for Air India's regular daily service from Vancouver to Delhi, which experienced a delay of several hours but eventually departed safely.

Flight tracking service FlightRadar24 indicated that the Air India flight from Vancouver to Delhi, with a stop in Vienna, was originally scheduled to leave at 3 PM but did not take off until 10:02 PM.

Air India has not yet responded to inquiries for comments.

Transport Canada noted that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation in India holds primary responsibility for overseeing Air India's regulatory compliance.

The agency emphasized that Canadian aviation laws prohibit pilots and crew members from operating within 12 hours of consuming alcohol or while under its influence.

It also stated that airlines must not assign crew members who are unfit for duty.

Failure to comply with these regulations could lead to the suspension or revocation of a Canadian Aviation Document under the Aeronautics Act.

The statement further mentioned that airlines might face legal and other repercussions.