Air India Dreamliner Fuel Switch Incident Traced to Pilot Error, DGCA Finds.

India's aviation regulator has clarified a recent safety concern involving an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) announced the reported fuel control switch issue was not mechanical. Instead, the problem stemmed from incorrect pilot handling of the cockpit component.

The incident occurred on February 1 during the engine start phase of an Air India flight from London to Bengaluru. Crew members reported that the left engine fuel control switch did not stay latched in the 'RUN' position. This happened on two separate attempts.

DGCA Investigation Findings

Following the crew's report, Air India grounded the aircraft as a precaution. The DGCA initiated a detailed investigation into the reported defect. The regulator's findings ruled out any mechanical failure in the switch itself.

The DGCA cited observations from the engineering team. They found the switch's locking mechanism was secure when force was applied correctly. However, the switch was found to move easily from 'RUN' to 'CUT OFF' under specific conditions.

The Role of Incorrect Handling

The regulator concluded that applying external force in an incorrect direction caused the movement. This was due to the angular base plate allowing slip when pressed improperly. The improper force was applied "with finger or thumb."

Fuel control switches are vital for aircraft operational safety. They manage the flow of fuel to the engines. An inadvertent movement to the 'CUT OFF' position can shut down an engine.

Industry Impact and Regulatory Action

This incident placed the Boeing 787-8 fuel switch under renewed scrutiny. The same component has been a focus in the ongoing investigation of a fatal Air India 787 crash last year. The preliminary report in that accident suggested fuel supply was cut off after take-off.

To address the issue, the DGCA has issued a directive to the airline. Air India is advised to circulate the Boeing recommended procedure for the switch. This action aims to reinforce pilot training standards and correct operational practices. The goal is to prevent future instances of incorrect pilot handling.

• The DGCA did not directly blame the pilots in its report.
• The crew successfully latched the switch on the third attempt.
• The flight was completed without any further incident or abnormal engine parameters.

This finding underscores the critical importance of strict adherence to standard operating procedures. It also highlights the need for continuous aircraft operational safety training. Both the airline and the manufacturer, Boeing, are involved in the review.

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