Air India, the national carrier, has been slapped with a stern legal warning from Canadian transportation authorities. This action comes weeks after one of its pilots was discovered to be under the influence of alcohol and deemed unfit for duty during pre-flight checks.
The Vancouver Airport Incident
The controversy unfolded at the Vancouver International Airport. According to a report by The Associated Press, during standard pre-flight preparations, an Air India pilot was found to be tipsy and unfit to operate the aircraft. This serious breach of international aviation safety protocols triggered an immediate investigation by Canadian officials.
Transport Canada's Stern Warning
In response to the incident, Transport Canada, the federal transportation agency of the Canadian government, has issued a formal warning to the airline. The agency has clearly stated that Air India's flight authorisation may be revoked if it fails to demonstrate full compliance with strict regulations concerning alcohol consumption by flight crew. This is a significant escalation that puts the airline's operations to and from Canada at potential risk.
Potential Repercussions and Next Steps
The warning from Transport Canada underscores the zero-tolerance approach global aviation bodies have towards safety violations. For Air India, this is not just a reputational hit but a direct operational threat. The airline must now urgently review and reinforce its internal checks and crew management protocols to satisfy Canadian authorities and avoid severe penalties, including the loss of landing rights.
This remains a developing story. Further updates are expected as Air India responds to the warning and Transport Canada evaluates the airline's corrective actions.
