More than a year after Air India flight AI-171 tragically crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, killing 260 people, the Centre has informed the Rajya Sabha that no abnormality was found in the fuel control switch locking mechanism of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.
Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol stated on Wednesday that a detailed examination of the fuel control switch, including the structural integrity of its locking detents, revealed no issues. This examination was conducted at the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) level in Seattle, as part of ongoing airworthiness checks ordered by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Thrust Control Module Still Under Inspection
Despite the finding regarding the fuel switch, Mohol clarified that a comprehensive inspection of the complete thrust control module is still underway at the OEM facility. This ongoing investigation aims to thoroughly assess all components related to engine control.
The AI-171, bound for London, crashed on June 12, 2025, striking a medical college hostel complex near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The disaster resulted in the deaths of 241 people on board and 19 on the ground, with only one passenger surviving.
Previous Findings and Investigation Timeline
A preliminary investigation report released last year indicated that the fuel control switches for both engines moved from 'RUN' to 'CUTOFF' shortly after takeoff, leading to a sudden loss of fuel supply and engine shutdown. Cockpit recordings reportedly captured a brief exchange where one pilot questioned the switch movement, which the other denied.
These initial findings raised critical questions about whether the switches were inadvertently moved by a pilot or if a technical malfunction was responsible. The government has firmly rejected suggestions of any delay in the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau's (AAIB) final report into the crash. Mohol emphasized that the timeline for major accident investigations cannot be precisely predicted, as it involves an evolving process with multiple variables. He assured that all probable causes and contributing factors are being thoroughly investigated.
The final investigation report, encompassing all findings, will be made public and published on the AAIB website once the inquiry is complete, though no specific release date has been provided.