The Ministry of Civil Aviation has informed Parliament that Boeing’s advanced testing of the Dreamliner’s fuel control switch locking mechanism revealed “no abnormality.” The inspection was initiated after an Air India pilot reported a potential issue. This was following a London Heathrow to Bengaluru flight in February.
The fuel control switch mechanism came under intense scrutiny after the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI-171, a Boeing 787-8 bound for London Gatwick, shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on June 12. The accident claimed 260 lives and triggered global safety reviews.
DGCA-Ordered Tests Clear Fuel Switch, Complete Thrust Module Still Under Inspection
Responding to questions in the Rajya Sabha during the Monsoon Session, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol stated that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) ordered the tests as part of ongoing airworthiness checks. These checks followed the temporary grounding of the aircraft type earlier this year.
A detailed examination conducted by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) in Seattle specifically evaluated the structural integrity of the switch’s locking detents. This examination found no mechanical defects.
However, investigators emphasized that a comprehensive inspection of the aircraft’s entire thrust control module remains underway at the OEM’s facility. This is to determine all contributing factors.
AAIB Final Investigation Proceeding Without Delays, Report to Be Publicly Released
The government dismissed allegations that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has delayed releasing its final report on the crash. Minister Mohol explained that major air crash inquiries do not adhere to rigid timelines. In fact, they are evolving, multi-stage processes governed by strict international protocols.
Confirming that the AI-171 probe has now entered its final stages, the ministry assured the House that all probable causes are being thoroughly evaluated. Moreover, the complete investigation report will be made public on the AAIB website once finalized.
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