DGCA advises Air India to retrain crew after fuel control switch concern on Boeing 787

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has advised Air India to strengthen crew training on correct operating procedures after a concern was raised over the fuel control switch of a Boeing 787-8 aircraft. The issue was flagged by the commander of flight AI 132 from London to Bengaluru, who reported abnormal behaviour of the left engine fuel control switch during engine start.

According to the DGCA, inspections found no mechanical defect in the switch. Both left and right fuel control switches were checked and found to be serviceable, with locking mechanisms functioning as designed. However, the regulator observed that if external force is applied in an incorrect direction, the switch could move from RUN to CUTOFF due to its angular base plate.

The regulator also reviewed a video circulating on social media and noted that the procedure shown was incorrect. Air India has been advised to circulate the manufacturer-recommended procedure for operating the fuel cut-off switch among its crew to prevent improper handling.

DGCA said the crew had verified that the switch was properly latched before continuing the flight and closely monitored engine parameters throughout the journey. The flight was completed safely, and further checks carried out after landing confirmed the switch was within prescribed limits.