Why is the UK Regulator Questioning Air India's Dreamliner Fuel Switches?
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is questioning Air India over a Boeing 787 Dreamliner's departure from London with a reported fuel control switch anomaly.
Key Takeaways
- •UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) demanded an explanation from Air India after a Boeing 787 Dreamliner departed London Heathrow with a reported fuel control switch anomaly.
- •The flight crew reported the switch slipped to the 'CUTOFF' position twice during pre-flight engine start checks on February 1, 2026.
- •Air India and India's DGCA found no mechanical defects after inspections, suggesting the issue may relate to crew handling procedures.
- •The regulatory action is heightened due to a fatal 2025 Air India 787 crash where fuel switch movement was a factor.
Britain's aviation regulator has formally questioned Air India following a safety incident involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) demanded a full explanation from the carrier. This inquiry focuses on a flight that departed London Heathrow (LHR) with a reported technical issue.
Incident Details and Regulatory Action
The incident occurred on February 1, 2026, before Air India Flight AI132 departed for Bengaluru. Flight crew reported an anomaly with a fuel control switch during engine start procedures. The switch reportedly slipped to the "CUTOFF" position twice. After the switch remained stable on the third attempt, the crew decided to continue the nine-hour passenger flight.
Upon landing in India, the aircraft was immediately grounded for safety checks. The CAA sent a formal letter to Air India on February 3, 2026. The regulator expressed "serious concern" over the decision to clear the aircraft for takeoff. They requested a detailed account of all maintenance actions performed. The CAA also demanded a comprehensive root-cause analysis and a preventative action plan. The airline was given a one-week deadline to submit a complete response. The CAA warned that failure to provide a satisfactory explanation could lead to regulatory action. This action could affect Air India's UK operations or its Boeing 787 fleet. The CAA noted that such requests are part of routine safety assurance procedures.
Airline and Indian Regulator Response
Air India confirmed the pilot's report and the grounding of the specific aircraft. The airline then conducted precautionary re-inspections. These checks covered the fuel control switches across its entire operational Boeing 787 fleet. Air India stated that no technical defects were found during these fleet-wide inspections. The carrier maintains that its fleet remains airworthy and compliant with safety standards.
India's regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), also examined the incident. The DGCA's initial assessment found the fuel switches to be serviceable and functioning normally. The Indian regulator suggested the movement might be due to light pressure applied in an incorrect direction. The DGCA subsequently advised Air India to reinforce correct operating procedures among its flight crews.
Safety Context and Industry Impact
Fuel control switches are a critical component in aircraft operations. They regulate the flow of fuel to the engines during start-up and in-flight procedures. This incident has drawn heightened international scrutiny for Air India. It follows a fatal Air India Boeing 787 crash in 2025. The preliminary investigation into that crash found that the fuel control switches had been moved to the cutoff position shortly after takeoff.
- Risk: The core issue highlights the potential for a mechanical fault or a procedural breakdown.
- Impact: The CAA's inquiry underscores the growing international coordination on aviation safety oversight.
- Challenge: Air India must now satisfy the CAA that its maintenance and operational protocols meet international standards.
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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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