Transport Canada has flagged a serious safety concern involving Air India, after a complaint by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) alleged that an Air India captain was under the influence of alcohol before duty at Vancouver airport. In a letter dated December 24, 2025, addressed to senior Air India officials, Transport Canada stated that the incident occurred on Flight AI186 from Vancouver (CYVR) to Vienna (LOWW) on December 23, 2025.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) informed authorities that "Captain Saurabh Kumar reported for duty on Air India flight AI186 on December 23, 2025, while under the influence of alcohol, and unfit for duty". The letter further states, "Two breathalyser tests conducted by the RCMP at Vancouver International Airport confirmed this, after he was advised to leave the aircraft."