India Mandates Inspections of Fuel Control Switches on Boeing Aircraft Amid Crash Investigation

In light of the catastrophic Air India incident, India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has mandated inspections of fuel control switches in Boeing aircraft, prompting airlines to comply swiftly.

India's aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has mandated that airlines conduct thorough inspections of fuel control switches on their Boeing aircraft in the wake of the Air India Flight 171 disaster, which tragically resulted in the deaths of 260 individuals in June. This order comes after both Indian and international airlines commenced their own checks following a preliminary report that highlighted safety concerns regarding the fuel switches.

The DGCA's directive, emphasizing the need for strict compliance by July 21, aims to uphold the safety and airworthiness of operations in light of the findings released Saturday. The preliminary report revealed that moments after take-off, the engines of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner had their fuel supply abruptly cut off. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) previously issued guidance in 2018, recommending—but not mandating—inspections of the fuel cut-off switches to verify that they cannot be accidentally moved. Although Air India had not performed these inspections as they were not legally required, the DGCA's new order is now in line with this earlier guidance.

The FAA, in response to the preliminary report, reiterated its position that the fuel switches in question remain safe despite concerns stemming from earlier reports indicating that their locking feature may have been disengaged. Moreover, the Indian Commercial Pilots' Association came forward to defend the pilots of Flight 171, asserting that they acted appropriately within their training during an exigent situation, contrasting public speculation regarding their conduct.

Amid the unfolding investigation, South Korea is also reportedly preparing to inspect its airlines operating Boeing jets, showing a broader international focus on aviation safety. The preliminary report conducted by the India Aircraft Accident Investigation Branch (AAIB) noted that the switches controlling the jet's fuel flow had switched from "run" to "cut-off," hindering engine performance. One cockpit recording featured a pilot questioning the fuel cutoff, which the other pilot denied initiating. The AAIB clarified that its preliminary report is intended to evaluate facts without assigning blame or liability.