New Delhi: Air India on Monday grounded a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner operating on the London–Bengaluru route after a pilot reported a possible technical issue related to the aircraft’s fuel control switch. The airline said the matter is being examined on priority, with both Boeing and the aircraft’s original equipment manufacturer (OEM) involved in the investigation.
Aircraft Grounded as Precautionary Measure
According to Air India, the aircraft was immediately withdrawn from service after the pilot flagged the concern during routine operations. The airline stressed that grounding the Dreamliner was a precautionary step to ensure passenger safety while the reported issue is thoroughly assessed.
In an official statement, Air India said it had informed Boeing and engaged the OEM to conduct a detailed technical examination of the fuel control switch. “After receiving the pilot’s initial input, we grounded the aircraft and initiated checks on a priority basis,” the airline said.
DGCA Notified, No Issues Found in Fleet-Wide Checks
The airline has also reported the matter to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Air India noted that following an earlier DGCA directive, it had already carried out fleet-wide inspections of fuel control switches across all its Boeing 787 aircraft.
“During those checks, no anomalies were detected,” the airline said, adding that the current issue is being reviewed independently to rule out any technical fault.
Context of Previous Safety Concerns
The development gains significance in light of heightened scrutiny over fuel control systems in Dreamliner aircraft after an Air India Boeing 787 crash in June last year, which raised questions in some quarters about the performance of certain cockpit components. While no direct link has been established, aviation authorities are treating all such reports with increased caution.
Ongoing Assessment
Air India said the aircraft will remain grounded until inspections are completed and safety clearances are obtained. The airline has assured passengers that alternative arrangements are being made to minimize disruption on the affected route.
Further details are expected once technical evaluations by Boeing and the OEM are concluded.
