Air India under Fire Yet Again. Why has the DGCA issued a Show-Cause Notice this Time?
Air India has come under the radar once again for operating a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner despite repetitive technical glitches and system degradations. T
Air India said it regretted the occurrence after one of its pilots on a Vancouver–Delhi flight on December 23 was found to be drunk by Canadian authorities.
Flight AI186 was delayed at Vancouver airport after the cockpit crew member was offloaded ahead of departure. In a statement, an Air India representative said Canadian authorities had flagged the issue, after which the pilot was taken for additional inquiry.
“Consistent with safety protocols, an alternate pilot was rostered to operate the flight, resulting in the delay. Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to its passengers and is fully cooperating with the local authorities,” the airline said.
The spokesperson added that the pilot had been taken off flying duties throughout the enquiry and that strict action would be taken if any violation were confirmed. “Pending the consequence of the investigation, any confirmed violation will attract strict punitive action as per the company policy,” the statement said.
Air India said that there is a zero-tolerance policy on violations and said safety is its highest priority.
The incident was highlighted after Transport Canada informed Air India that the pilot failed a breathalyzer test before operating the flight. In a letter dated December 24, Transport Canada said the incident resulted in a violation of Canadian aviation regulations and the conditions set out in Air India’s foreign air operator certificate.
It also asked Air India to conduct a detailed investigation under its safety management system and to submit a report on the steps taken by January 26, 2026. It also said enforcement action could be pursued by Canadian authorities.
The flight operated a long-haul route that now includes a refuelling stop due to Pakistan airspace restrictions. AI186 was to take flight from Vancouver to Vienna with one set of pilots, after which another crew would take over for the Vienna–Delhi leg.
Source: Times of India
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