In a swift move prioritizing passenger safety, Air India has sidelined one of its Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners after pilots flagged a potential issue with the fuel control switch during pre-flight checks. The incident unfolded on a flight scheduled from London to Bengaluru, highlighting ongoing concerns with the aircraft’s technical reliability.
The airline confirmed in an official statement that the aircraft, operating as Flight AI 132, was immediately removed from service as a precautionary measure. No passengers were put at risk, as the fault was detected before takeoff. Air India has promptly notified Boeing, urging the manufacturer to conduct a priority investigation and address the pilots’ concerns.
This development comes amid heightened scrutiny of Air India’s Boeing fleet. Regulators, including the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), have been informed, and the airline asserts full compliance with all safety protocols. Earlier inspections of the entire 787 fleet, mandated by DGCA, had cleared the planes of any fuel switch problems.
Air India’s spokesperson emphasized that safety remains the top priority, with crew and passenger welfare at the forefront. The carrier has reassured travelers that rigorous checks and corrective actions are underway to uphold the highest standards.
The aviation sector has seen similar technical hiccups recently. Just last December, another Air India flight bound for Mumbai made an emergency return to Delhi shortly after departure due to a technical snag, landing safely with all aboard unharmed.
As investigations proceed, aviation experts are watching closely. This incident underscores the critical importance of pre-flight vigilance and the collaborative efforts between airlines, manufacturers, and regulators to mitigate risks in modern air travel. Air India continues to operate its network seamlessly, with alternative arrangements for affected passengers.