An Air India pilot has flagged a possible defect in an engine fuel control switch on a Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The issue was noticed during engine start. As a precaution, the aircraft has been grounded for safety checks.
Engine Switch Issue During Start-Up
The concern arose on a London to Bengaluru flight operated by a nine-year-old Boeing 787. During engine start, the left engine fuel control switch reportedly failed to stay locked in the RUN position. It moved towards Cutoff twice.
Why Fuel Control Switches Matter
Fuel control switches regulate fuel flow to aircraft engines. Any unusual movement can be serious. Such behaviour may lead to an unintended engine shutdown during critical phases of flight.
Link to Earlier Boeing 787 Crash
The report has gained attention due to the ongoing probe into the fatal Air India Boeing 787 crash near Ahmedabad last June. In that incident, both engines lost power shortly after take-off. Investigators found the switches had moved from Run to Cutoff.
Air India and DGCA Response
Air India confirmed the aircraft has been grounded and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been informed. The airline also involved Boeing to examine the issue in detail.
Previous Checks and Current Review
Air India stated that earlier inspections of fuel control switches across its Boeing 787 fleet showed no faults. Boeing has confirmed it is in touch with the airline and is supporting the ongoing review.
No Direct Link Yet
No direct connection has been established between this incident and the earlier crash. However, repeated concerns involving a critical engine control component continue to raise questions.
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