An Air India pilot set to helm the AI186 flight from Vancouver to New Delhi was offloaded moments before take-off at the Vancouver International Airport for failing a “smell test”, as per reports.
On December 23, 2025, flight number AI186, which was scheduled to take off from Vancouver airport in Canada, was delayed after Canadian authorities raised concern over the suspected “smell”, which led to prompt checks of the pilot, resulting in the delay of flight.
According to reports, a staff member at the Vancouver airport allegedly saw the pilot “sipping on wine” or buying liquor, following which the employee complained to the authorities. In response, a breathalyser test was conducted, in which he failed, leading to his offloading from the flight.
Following the incident, the pilot was removed and replaced as per safety protocols, but the assignment of a new pilot led to more delay in take-off.
Air India apologises
Air India apologised for the inconvenience and affirmed its cooperation with Canadian officials. "Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to its passengers and is fully cooperating with the local authorities," the spokesperson said.
The matter has also been reported to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, which is independently examining the incident. The regulator is reviewing safety concerns linked to fitness for duty, while the airline continues its internal investigation.
Also read: Air India flight makes emergency landing after engine failure
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