India Directs Airlines to Inspect Boeing Fuel Control Switches Following Fatal Crash

In response to the June disaster that claimed 260 lives, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) of India has mandated airlines to thoroughly inspect fuel control switches in their Boeing planes. This directive follows concerns raised by a preliminary investigation report indicating that fuel cutoff occurred shortly after takeoff. The DGCA's order aligns with previous advisories by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which recommended checks of the locking feature on these switches. The FAA maintains the safety of these features, but the aviation community is urged to act swiftly to prevent future incidents. Indian pilots' representation has defended the crew's performance during the crash, underscoring their adherence to training under dire circumstances.

The DGCA has set a deadline of July 21 for the completion of these crucial inspections, stressing the importance of compliance to maintain airworthiness. The initial findings from the investigation into Flight 171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner heading for London, revealed potential mishaps with the fuel control switches. Preliminary data indicates that these switches were inadvertently moved to the 'cut-off' position, severely limiting engine thrust. Additionally, a response from the FAA highlighted that the advisory issued in 2018 was precautionary and did not signify an imminent safety risk. Following the incident, the Indian Commercial Pilots' Association rallied in support of the flight crew, disputing allegations of blame amidst ongoing investigations. Meanwhile, South Korea has announced impending checks for its airlines operating Boeing aircraft.