In the latest development in the aviation sector, major airlines across the world are now checking the lock mechanism in the fuel switches of Boeing 787s. This comes after an Air India plane of the same model crashed last month, killing over 250 people.
Etihad, Singapore Airlines Start Inspections On Boeing Aircraft Fuel Switch System
As per a recent report by The Economic Times, Etihad Airways has instructed its engineers to inspect the locking mechanism of the fuel control switches in its Boeing aircraft after the deadly Air India crash last month. Singapore Airlines has also started similar checks. This comes even though Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have said that the fuel lock operators on Boeing planes are working and safe.
Notably, Boeing 787 aircraft are manufactured in the US as per standards set by the FAA. However, airlines are free to carry out safety checks based on their regulations and needs. Sources say that Air India and India’s civil aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), are also examining the issue and may take similar steps.
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Fuel Switch Moved Moments Before Air India Crash
The fuel control switches in the Air India plane that crashed last month were moved from ‘run’ to ‘cutoff’ just moments before the impact. This cut off fuel supply to the engines and led to the crash, according to a preliminary investigation report. As per ET, the report was issued by India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau. The change in switch settings confused both pilots and led to a loss of power in the engines.
These switches, in advanced aircraft like the Boeing 787, are located just below the thrust lever. They also have safeguards, like a metal lock and guard, to prevent accidental movement. Investigators are now focusing entirely on these fuel control switches for further examination.
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The deadly Air India crash has pushed many airlines to inspect their planes for possible faults in their fuel switch systems. They are focusing especially on Boeing 787 aircraft for similar issues.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Shoval Zonnis (Representative Image)