India Orders Urgent Fuel Switch Inspections on Boeing Aircraft Following Air India Tragedy

In light of a recent tragic Air India crash that resulted in 260 fatalities, India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has mandated inspections of fuel control switches on Boeing aircraft. The order, which is in alignment with previous FAA advisories, follows findings that fuel flow was interrupted shortly after take-off. Concerns over the switches have led to immediate scrutiny from both Indian and international aviation authorities.

The DGCA's directive, issued shortly after a preliminary investigative report pointed to fuel cut-off issues in the June crash of Flight 171, emphasizes the necessity of these inspections for maintaining air safety. Airlines have until July 21 to confirm compliance with the order. This action comes on the heels of a statement by the US Federal Aviation Administration, which deemed the switches safe, despite previous advisories suggesting they should undergo checks.

As investigations continue, a representative of the Indian Commercial Pilots' Association has rallied behind the crew of the ill-fated flight, asserting that they followed proper protocols under extraordinary circumstances. The preliminary report indicates that the fuel switches may have inadvertently shifted from "run" to "cut-off," prompting further examination of potential contributor factors. Meanwhile, South Korea is considering similar inspections for its airlines operating Boeing jets, reflecting a growing international focus on aviation safety following this tragic event.