Air India took decisive action on Monday by grounding a Boeing 787-8 aircraft following a reported malfunction in its fuel control switch. The problem surfaced during routine pre-departure inspections for Flight AI 132 from London Gatwick to Bengaluru, prompting pilots to halt operations.
An airline spokesperson detailed that the decision was made instantaneously upon the crew’s alert, exemplifying Air India’s commitment to zero-tolerance for safety risks. Boeing has been looped in for an expedited review, while the DGCA received full disclosure as per protocol.
Prior to this, Air India had meticulously inspected every Boeing 787 in its fleet per DGCA directives, finding no anomalies in the fuel systems. Yet, this recurrence raises questions about potential latent defects or maintenance nuances.
Passengers awaiting the London-Bengaluru leg were rebooked on alternative flights, minimizing disruptions. The airline reiterated its unwavering focus on safety, promising thorough audits and transparency throughout the resolution process.
Echoing a pattern, this follows a December episode where a Mumbai-bound flight circled back to Delhi due to technical issues, ensuring a safe touchdown. Such events, though resolved without incident, spotlight the aviation industry’s reliance on proactive fault detection.
Industry analysts note that while Boeing 787s are renowned for efficiency, sporadic component issues have plagued operators globally. Air India’s response sets a benchmark for accountability, as it navigates fleet management in a post-pandemic travel boom. Updates on the probe are anticipated soon, with the grounded jet slated for return only after certification.
