DGCA dismisses claims, finds Boeing's AI132 fuel switches 'satisfactory'
What's the story
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has dismissed viral claims about a defect in the fuel cut-off switch on Air India's Boeing 787-8 aircraft. The incident occurred during flight AI132 from London to Bengaluru on February 1, 2026. The DGCA noted that while the operating crew observed an issue with the fuel control switch not latching correctly in the "RUN" position during engine start, it latched properly on the third attempt and remained stable.
Flight report
No abnormal parameters during flight: DGCA
The DGCA further clarified that there were no abnormal engine parameters, cautions, warnings, or related system messages during the flight. After landing in Bengaluru, the crew reported the observation in a post-flight defect report. Air India then referred the matter to Boeing for further guidance. Boeing-recommended checks confirmed both left and right switches were satisfactory with locking tooth/pawl fully seated and not slipping from RUN to CUTOFF under normal conditions.
Safety measures
Pull-to-unlock force checks found within limits
The DGCA also conducted additional pull-to-unlock force checks on the fuel cut-off switch and found them within limits. These inspections were done in the presence of DGCA officers. The regulator further analyzed a video circulating on social media and found that the procedure demonstrated was incorrect. It advised Air India to circulate Boeing's recommended operating procedure for the fuel cut-off switch among its crew members.
Fleet inspection
Air India initiates precautionary inspections across fleet
In light of the incident, Air India has started precautionary inspections of fuel control switches across its Boeing 787 fleet. The airline operates 33 such aircraft, including 26 Boeing 787-8 and seven Boeing 787-9 planes. The move comes after an Air India pilot reported a defect related to the fuel control switch on a similar aircraft operating from London Heathrow to Bengaluru.
Past inspections
Inspections after fatal crash last year
Notably, Air India had also inspected fuel control switches last year after a fatal crash of a Boeing 787-8 in Ahmedabad. The crash killed 260 people and was linked to the cutting off of engine fuel supply shortly after take-off. This incident has put the spotlight back on the functioning of fuel control switches on Boeing aircraft.