India pilot suspended for failing alcohol test

    A pilot for an Indian airline has been suspended after failing a test for alcohol.

    Captain Arvind Kathpalia was scheduled to command an Air India Delhi-London flight on Sunday 11 November but was grounded following the test results.

    Aviation rules prohibit pilots from drinking 12 hours before flying and pre-flight alcohol tests are mandatory.

    Capt Kathpalia, who is also the Director of Operations for the airline, has denied the charges against him and claims he will challenge the results as he was a victim of internal fighting within Air India.

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