NEW DELHI: As investigations continue into last month’s devastating Air India Boeing 787-8 crash that claimed 271 lives, including 30 on the ground, both the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and aircraft manufacturer Boeing have stated that the aircraft’s fuel control switch locks are safe and do not warrant any design changes or regulatory directives.
The FAA issued a Continued Airworthiness Notification on July 11, stating that despite similarities in the fuel switch lock design across multiple Boeing aircraft, the issue does not represent an “unsafe condition” requiring an Airworthiness Directive. Boeing echoed this stance in a Multi-Operator Message sent to global airlines, confirming that no action was being recommended at this time. Reuters reported the development citing both the notification and sources familiar with the matter.
This clarification follows a preliminary investigation report released by India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), which found that both fuel switches in the Air India aircraft had moved from the “run” to “cutoff” position just moments after takeoff. The cockpit voice recorder captured one pilot asking the other why the fuel had been shut off — to which the response was, “I didn’t do it.”
The report referenced a 2018 FAA advisory (not a mandate) suggesting that airlines inspect the locking mechanisms of fuel switches on several Boeing models, including the 787, to prevent accidental movement. Air India reportedly did not act on this advisory, citing its non-compulsory nature. However, the AAIB confirmed that the aircraft and engines had met all required airworthiness directives and bulletins at the time of the crash.
In response, ALPA India, which represents Indian pilots in the global federation IFALPA, has strongly pushed back against premature assumptions of pilot error. ALPA President Capt. Sam Thomas demanded that pilots be included as observers in the investigation, warning against scapegoating without conclusive evidence. In a letter shared on social media platform X, ALPA India pointed to the possibility of an equipment malfunction involving the fuel control switch gates, reinforcing their call for a fair and thorough inquiry.
Two U.S. aviation safety experts have supported ALPA India’s request to participate as observers in the investigation, while also stating that the AAIB’s initial report appeared balanced and not biased against the crew. John Cox, a former ALPA official and pilot, said the report maintained objectivity.
Meanwhile, Air India CEO Campbell Wilson addressed airline staff in a detailed internal memo, discouraging speculation in the wake of media narratives surrounding the crash. He clarified that the AAIB’s preliminary report found no evidence of mechanical or maintenance issues, fuel contamination, or pilot medical violations. “All mandatory maintenance tasks were completed. The take-off roll was normal. There was no bird hit or sabotage,” Wilson emphasized.
The CEO also noted that all Boeing 787 aircraft in Air India’s fleet underwent post-crash inspections and were deemed fit for service. Stressing the importance of patience and professionalism, Wilson urged employees not to be swayed by premature conclusions. “Until the final report is released, there will be speculation and sensationalism. But we must focus on our core values—integrity, excellence, innovation, and teamwork.”
Union Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu echoed the same caution, saying the preliminary findings do not identify a definitive cause or recommend corrective measures yet. The final report, he added, will provide greater clarity.
As the investigation continues, the tragedy remains a grim reminder of the complexities of aviation safety and the need for objective, evidence-based conclusions.
