Overview
- The left engine fuel control switch on Flight AI132 twice failed to stay latched in RUN during engine start at Heathrow before latching on a third attempt, and the Bengaluru flight completed without incident under close monitoring.
- DGCA said pull-to-unlock forces measured per Boeing procedure were within limits, no abnormal engine parameters were recorded, and crews are being briefed to follow the correct operating method.
- Engineering observations noted the switch can slip from RUN to CUTOFF if pressed in the wrong direction because of the angular base plate, prompting the regulator to stress proper handling.
- The aircraft registered VT-ANX remains grounded for inspection, Boeing is supporting the review, and the affected fuel control unit is expected to be sent for detailed analysis.
- Air India is rechecking switches across its 33-strong 787 fleet after earlier post-crash inspections found no issues, as unions and safety groups renew calls for wider checks referencing a 2018 FAA alert and last year’s fatal Ahmedabad crash findings.