New Delhi: Air India has launched a detailed inspection of fuel control switches across its Boeing 787 fleet after a malfunction was detected in an aircraft that operated from London Heathrow to Bengaluru on Sunday. The issue was noticed during pre flight procedures when the fuel switch on the left engine failed to remain securely in the run position. As a precaution, the airline immediately grounded the aircraft and initiated a wider safety review.
The airline has instructed all Boeing 787 pilots and engineering teams to conduct a reinspection of the fuel control switch latch on every aircraft. The technical division has also escalated the matter to the manufacturer for urgent evaluation. Engineers are verifying whether the switches function normally and whether any mechanical weakness exists that could affect operations.
The affected aircraft was scheduled to operate flight AI 132 from London to Bengaluru. During routine checks before departure, the crew observed irregular movement in the switch mechanism. Although the flight eventually landed safely in India, the airline decided not to take any risk and removed the aircraft from service for thorough examination.
Air India currently operates thirty three Boeing 787 aircraft, including twenty six 787 8 models and seven 787 9 variants. The company has asked crew members to immediately report even minor abnormalities and to ensure all checks are completed before accepting an aircraft for duty. Initial feedback from inspections already completed has not revealed any adverse findings, but the review continues as a preventive measure.
A similar inspection had been carried out last year following a serious accident involving a Boeing 787 in Ahmedabad. Investigators at that time had pointed to a sudden cut off in fuel supply soon after take off. The recurrence of a switch related concern has therefore drawn significant attention from regulators.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has begun a comprehensive investigation into the latest malfunction. The regulator will examine whether the problem is an isolated incident or part of a broader technical issue. The development has also come at a sensitive moment as India and the United States engage in wider aviation and trade discussions. Air India has assured passengers that safety remains its highest priority and that all necessary steps will be taken before the aircraft return to regular service.
