A recent report has flagged concerns regarding Air India’s adherence to past recommendations from the Federal Aviation Administration (F.A.A.) pertaining to the Boeing 787 model, particularly focusing on the fuel control switches. The F.A.A. had issued an advisory in 2018 advocating for inspections of the locking mechanism on these switches to prevent accidental movement. However, according to the preliminary findings, Air India did not carry out the recommended inspections, citing that they were not mandatory.
The report highlighted that Air India had replaced the larger throttle module containing the fuel switches in both 2019 and 2023, although these replacements were not connected to the fuel switch issue. Notably, John Cox, a former airline pilot and CEO of Safety Operating Systems, pointed out that such parts are typically inspected to ensure that locking mechanisms function correctly prior to installation.
In response to the preliminary report, the F.A.A. has informed airlines and reiterated that the matters raised by the 2018 advisory do not constitute an unsafe condition. Boeing has also communicated with operators regarding the report, indicating that no further action is needed at this time.
In light of these developments, India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued a directive mandating that all airlines operating Boeing models complete the necessary inspections by July 21. This proactive measure underscores a commitment to ensuring safety in the aviation sector, fostering a culture of vigilance and precaution.
The aviation industry continuously prioritizes safety, and it is encouraging to see regulatory bodies take decisive actions to uphold service standards while addressing potential concerns raised in ongoing assessments.