Air India Grounds Dreamliner After Pilot Flags Fuel Control Switch Issue
Air India has taken a Boeing 787 Dreamliner out of service following a concerning incident during a flight from London to Bengaluru. The aircraft, registered as VT-ANX, was grounded after the flight crew reported abnormal behavior in the fuel control switch, raising immediate safety concerns.
Flight Details and Incident Timeline
The affected flight departed from London's Heathrow Airport at 9:19 PM on Sunday and completed its journey to Bengaluru, landing safely at 11:54 AM on Monday. During the flight, the pilot observed that the left engine's fuel control switch was not functioning correctly. According to the Safety Matters Foundation, the switch failed to remain securely locked in the RUN position on two separate occasions, instead moving toward the CUTOFF position. This malfunction could potentially lead to an engine shutdown during flight, presenting a significant safety risk.
Immediate Response and Investigation
Air India responded promptly by grounding the aircraft upon its arrival in Bengaluru. The airline has involved the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for a thorough inspection and has formally notified the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India's aviation regulatory body. The DGCA has initiated a detailed investigation into the matter to determine the root cause of the switch failure and assess any broader implications for the Dreamliner fleet.
Boeing has also been approached for comments regarding this incident, as the manufacturer of the aircraft. The collaboration between Air India, the OEM, and regulatory authorities underscores the seriousness with which this potential safety issue is being treated.
Safety as Top Priority
In an official statement, Air India emphasized that the safety of passengers and crew remains its highest priority. The airline's swift action to ground the aircraft demonstrates its commitment to maintaining stringent safety standards and addressing any anomalies proactively. This incident highlights the critical importance of continuous monitoring and maintenance in aviation operations.
The grounding of the Dreamliner serves as a precautionary measure while investigations are ongoing. Aviation experts note that such proactive steps are essential in preventing potential accidents and ensuring the reliability of aircraft systems. The outcome of the DGCA's probe will likely influence future maintenance protocols and safety checks for similar aircraft models.
