Air India Grounds Boeing 787-8 Over Pilot-Reported Fuel Switch Issue – Proactive Safety Win

Air India acted decisively on February 2, 2026, grounding Boeing 787-8 VT-ANX after a pilot reported a possible defect in the left engine fuel control switch during AI132's pre-departure startup at Heathrow.

The switch allegedly failed to lock in 'run' position, shifting to 'cutoff' twice a critical safety concern regulating fuel to engines. "We have grounded the aircraft and are involving OEM to check pilot concerns on priority," the airline stated, notifying DGCA promptly.
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Fleet-wide inspections of Boeing 787 fuel switches, mandated by DGCA post prior incidents (e.g., 2025 Ahmedabad crash probe), found no anomalies. Spring-loaded switches with protective brackets minimize accidental movement; Boeing deems locks safe.
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This echoes 2025 Air India Express checks (no faults). Amid Tata Group revival, Air India's proactive stance reinforces safety culture. DGCA/AAIB probe underway; no disruptions reported.

Key Highlights

• Aircraft: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner (VT-ANX).
• Flight: AI132 Heathrow to Bengaluru (grounded post-landing).
• Issue: Left fuel control switch moved to 'cutoff' twice from 'run'.
• Response: Grounded immediately; OEM priority inspection.
• Prior Checks: Fleet-wide fuel switches inspected per DGCA directive – no issues.
• Regulator: Matter escalated to DGCA.
• Priority: Passenger/crew safety paramount.

Sources: NDTV, Times of India, YouTube/Safety Matters, Reuters