Why Did Air India's Boeing 787 Fly From London With a Fuel Switch Issue?
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
UK Civil Aviation Authority demands Air India explain why a Boeing 787 Dreamliner departed London Heathrow despite a fuel control switch defect, sparking renewed safety concerns over its widebody fleet.
Key Takeaways
- •UK CAA issued an ultimatum to Air India, demanding a detailed explanation and a root-cause analysis within one week for the Boeing 787's departure from London with a fuel switch anomaly.
- •The incident involved a fuel control switch that failed to remain latched in the 'run' position on two attempts during engine start, a component under heightened scrutiny since the fatal Air India Flight 171 crash in June 2025.
- •Air India conducted a precautionary re-inspection across its entire 33-aircraft Boeing 787 fleet, reporting that no issues were found with the fuel control switches.
British aviation regulators are demanding answers from Air India after a Boeing 787 Dreamliner departed London with a suspected fuel control switch issue. This incident raises fresh safety questions about the airline's widebody fleet and maintenance procedures. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has formally asked Air India to provide a detailed explanation.
Regulatory Scrutiny and Ultimatum
The incident involved a flight from London Heathrow (LHR) to Bengaluru (BLR) on a Sunday. During engine start procedures, the flight crew noted that a fuel control switch did not remain latched in the ‘run’ position on two attempts. The switch appeared stable on the third attempt, and the crew chose to continue the flight to India.
The CAA sent a letter to Air India, warning of potential regulatory action against the airline and its Boeing 787 fleet. This action could occur if a complete response is not provided within one week.
- The UK regulator is seeking a detailed account of all maintenance actions performed.
- It also requested a comprehensive root-cause analysis of the incident.
- A preventive action plan for the entire Air India Boeing 787 fleet is also required.
The CAA stated that requesting such information is a standard process for a regulator. This action is routine following an aircraft incident and aligns with safety assurance procedures.
Fuel Switch History and Safety Context
Fuel control switches are critical components. They regulate the flow of jet fuel into an aircraft’s engines. The switches are designed to prevent inadvertent movement. Pilots must typically lift them before moving them between the 'run' and 'cut-off' positions.
This component category has faced heightened scrutiny since a fatal Air India crash. This crash involved a Dreamliner in Gujarat state last year, killing 260 people. Preliminary investigation reports indicated that the fuel control switches played a role in the dual-engine power loss after takeoff in that accident.
Air India and DGCA Response
Upon arrival in India, the aircraft was grounded for checks after the pilot reported a possible defect. India's civil aviation watchdog, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), later conducted checks. The DGCA found the switches to be functioning normally.
Air India issued an internal memo on February 4. The memo confirmed a precautionary re-inspection of the fuel switches. This check covered all 33 of its Boeing 787 aircraft. The airline reported that no issues were found during these fleet-wide checks.
Air India stated it would “respond to the UK regulator accordingly.” The airline has faced closer regulatory oversight since the fatal crash. This latest incident adds to the scrutiny of its aviation maintenance procedures and safety decision-making. The DGCA is also advising Air India to circulate recommended Boeing operating procedures for the fuel cut-off switches to all flight crews.
Industry Impact
This incident highlights the global nature of aviation safety. Regulators like the UK CAA can demand accountability from foreign carriers operating in their airspace. The focus on aircraft airworthiness and maintenance is crucial. This is especially true for safety-critical components like the fuel control switch. The outcome of the CAA's inquiry will set a precedent. It will determine the level of oversight for Air India's international operations. This scrutiny impacts passenger confidence and the airline's reputation. The airline's ability to demonstrate a robust preventive action plan is key to resolving the issue. This is vital for maintaining its international flying rights. The DGCA's role in the Air India Boeing 787 fuel-switch incident is also under review.
From airline operations to fleet updates, commercial aviation news lives at flying.flights. For reporting on UAP sightings, investigations, and aviation-related encounters, see the UAPs section at flying.flights/uaps.
Written by Ujjwal Sukhwani
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience. Covers flight operations, safety regulations, and market trends with expert analysis.
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