Air India grounds Dreamliner after fuel switch slips to 'cutoff'
What's the story
An Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner was grounded after its left fuel control switch failed to remain in the "run" position during engine startup. The flight, AI 132, had arrived from Heathrow to Bengaluru on Monday. An Air India spokesperson confirmed, "We are aware that one of our pilots has reported a possible defect on the fuel control switch of a Boeing 787-8 aircraft."
Investigation underway
Air India working with Boeing to address pilot concerns
The airline has grounded the aircraft and is working with the original equipment manufacturer (OEM), Boeing, to address the pilot's concerns. "We have grounded the said aircraft and are involving the OEM to get the pilot's concerns checked on a priority basis," said an Air India spokesperson. After this incident, Boeing has confirmed that they are in touch with Air India and are "supporting their review of this matter."
Safety measures
Air India informs DGCA about fuel switch issue
Air India has also informed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) about the issue with the fuel switch. The airline reiterated its commitment to passenger and crew safety, saying, "At Air India, safety of our passengers and crew remains top priority." The incident serves as a stark reminder of the tragic accident in June 2025 when an Air India Dreamliner crashed in Ahmedabad, killing 260 people.
Fleet inspection
Air India checked all Boeing 787 aircraft after crash
After the Ahmedabad crash, Air India had checked all Boeing 787 aircraft for any issues with fuel control switches and reported no problems. A preliminary report from investigators into the crash revealed that shortly after takeoff, both engine fuel control switches briefly moved to "cutoff," starving the engines of fuel. Aviation experts say pilots cannot accidentally move these switches as they are spring-loaded and require deliberate action to change positions.