Vancouver International Airport faced a major disruption on December 23, 2025. An Air India pilot was arrested after being found under the influence of alcohol while preparing for a flight to Delhi. Richmond RCMP said the arrest followed a "report of concern" about an airline crew member. The pilot was readying for Air India’s daily flight from Vancouver to Delhi. The flight was delayed for several hours but later departed safely. Police confirmed an ongoing investigation and declined to release more details. Transport Canada stated that Canadian aviation laws forbid pilots and crew from working within 12 hours of drinking alcohol or while under its influence. The agency warned that airlines must not assign crew members who are unfit for duty. Non-compliance could lead to flight authorisation suspension or cancellation. Two breathalyser tests by RCMP confirmed the pilot was unfit after he was asked to leave the plane. A letter from Transport Canada to Air India on December 24 said this incident violated Canadian Aviation Regulations and Air India's Foreign Air Operator Certificate. The agency asked the airline to fully review safety procedures and provide corrective actions by January 26, 2026. Sources said the pilot, who had a layover in Vienna, was reportedly buying alcohol at Vancouver Duty Free before boarding. CCTV footage helped police track him to the Air India flight. Because Pakistani airspace is closed following Operation Sindoor, AI 186 operated with two pilot crews: one from Vancouver to Vienna and another from Vienna to Delhi. Air India confirmed the pilot was "offloaded prior to departure" after authorities questioned his fitness. The airline said it is cooperating fully with local authorities and has suspended the pilot from flying duties pending investigation. It added: "Air India maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards any violation of applicable rules and regulations. Pending the outcome of the investigation, any confirmed violation will attract strict disciplinary action in line with company policy. Safety remains Air India’s highest priority at all times."