Canada Demands Air India Investigation After Pilot Removed Over Alcohol Allegations

Canada’s aviation authorities have formally requested a full investigation from Air India. This request follows the recent removal of one of its pilots from a flight. The pilot was removed under suspicion of being impaired by alcohol. The incident raises serious questions about airline safety and regulatory oversight.

Incident Details at Toronto Pearson

The concerning event occurred earlier this week. It took place at Toronto Pearson International Airport. The Air India flight was scheduled to depart for New Delhi. Sources report the pilot was removed from the cockpit. This happened just before the aircraft was set to take off. Crew members and airport authorities raised alarms. They suspected the pilot was impaired by alcohol. Canadian authorities immediately intervened in the matter. They launched a preliminary inquiry into the event.

An official spokesperson from Canada’s Transportation Safety Board (TSB) commented. “This is a serious issue that demands immediate attention,” the spokesperson said. “We have asked Air India to cooperate fully with our investigation.” The probe will look into the events leading to the pilot’s removal.

Airline and Regulatory Response

Air India responded to the serious allegations. The airline stated it takes the matter very seriously. It is working closely with Canadian authorities. They are also engaging their internal safety team. “Air India maintains the highest standards of safety,” the airline confirmed. “Any violation of our stringent operational protocols will not be tolerated.” The public was assured the situation is being thoroughly reviewed. Necessary actions will be taken once the review concludes.

Sources indicate the pilot underwent a breathalyzer test. This test occurred after being removed from the cockpit. Preliminary results reportedly showed traces of alcohol. However, the airline and Canadian authorities have not confirmed these specific details. The exact nature of the impairment remains uncertain.

Global Aviation Safety Protocols

This pilot alcohol allegations case highlights strict global rules. Standard aviation regulations require alcohol tests for pilots. These tests are mandatory before boarding any flight. Canada’s aviation rules, like those in many countries, are rigorous. Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) prohibit crew members from working within 12 hours of consuming alcohol.

India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has a zero-tolerance policy. This policy is often called the “bottle-to-throttle” rule. Pilots must not have consumed alcohol within 12 hours of a flight. They are not permitted to fly with any detectable blood alcohol concentration (BAC). In comparison, the US FAA permits a BAC of up to 0.04%. The DGCA’s strict stance reflects India's commitment to aviation safety.

Impact on Operations and Oversight

The pilot’s removal raises concerns beyond immediate safety. It questions the pre-flight screening processes used by airlines. Many experts agree that tight protocols are essential. Such measures prevent incidents of flight crew impairment. Critics suggest Air India may need to bolster its internal checks. This would help avoid similar situations in the future.

The incident has also drawn the attention of India’s DGCA investigation. The DGCA expressed concern over the serious allegations. It is monitoring the situation closely with Air India. They will ensure compliance with all international safety standards.

While the investigation is ongoing, the focus remains clear. Aviation safety experts stress the critical importance of strict protocols. Incidents like these, though rare, demand continuous vigilance. They underscore the need for robust regulatory oversight in commercial aviation news. For more updates on this and other industry developments, visit our dedicated section on commercial aviation news.