No Issues Found in Air India Dreamliner Fuel Switch Checks

New Delhi: Air India has confirmed that inspections of the Fuel Control Switches on all operational Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft in its fleet have revealed no defects. The review was carried out after the United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority sought clarification on how a Dreamliner was allowed to depart London despite concerns over a possible problem with the fuel switch mechanism.
The airline explained that the re inspections were conducted as a precaution after one of its pilots reported an observation during engine start. Engineers examined the switches that control the flow of fuel to the aircraft engines and found them to be functioning normally. According to the carrier, the checks were completed in line with recommended procedures and no irregularities were detected in any aircraft.
The Aviation Ministry also stated that detailed tests were performed on both the left and right switches of the grounded aircraft. The examination confirmed that the locking mechanism remained properly seated in the run position and did not slip to cutoff even when pressure was applied. Officials added that the results established the serviceability of the system and cleared the aircraft of any immediate safety concern.
The incident involved a Boeing 787 operating a flight from London to Bengaluru on February 1. During the initial engine start, the crew noticed on two occasions that one switch did not remain firmly latched when light pressure was applied. On the third attempt the switch engaged correctly, and the flight continued without any abnormal engine readings or warning messages. The aircraft landed safely in Bengaluru and the matter was recorded in the post flight report before being referred to the manufacturer for guidance.
The British regulator has asked Air India for a detailed root cause analysis and a preventive action plan to ensure that similar events do not occur in the future. The authority described the request as part of routine safety assurance procedures followed after any aircraft related incident.
Air India reiterated that it would fully cooperate with the regulator and circulate necessary operational guidance to all crew members. The airline emphasised that passenger and crew safety remains its highest priority and that all international standards will be strictly followed in the management of its Dreamliner fleet.