When AI-171 Crashed Due To Fuel Switch Fault, Why Did AI-132 Fly With The Same Issue?

Last Updated:February 04, 2026, 14:18 IST

On February 1, a fuel control switch-related anomaly was detected on Air India flight AI-132 operating from London to Bengaluru

According to the DGCA, the matter pertains to Air India flight AI-132, which departed London for Bengaluru on February 1. (Representative Image)

Seven months after a malfunctioning fuel control switch was cited as the cause behind the crash of Air India flight AI-171 in Ahmedabad, a similar technical issue has surfaced on another Air India service, raising fresh safety concerns. On February 1, a fuel control switch-related anomaly was detected on Air India flight AI-132 operating from London to Bengaluru. Despite the issue being noticed before departure, the aircraft proceeded with the journey and landed safely at its destination.

While no untoward incident occurred during the flight, the development triggered concern among passengers and aviation observers, prompting the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to issue a detailed clarification.

According to the DGCA, the matter pertains to Air India flight AI-132, which departed London for Bengaluru on February 1. The airline had deployed a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, bearing registration VT-ANX. During engine start-up procedures at London, the flight crew observed an issue with the aircraft’s fuel cut-off switch.

What DGCA said on Air India flight AI-132

The DGCA stated that during engine start, the crew observed on two occasions that the fuel control switch did not fully lock into the “run" position when light vertical pressure was applied. On the third attempt, the switch latched correctly in the “run" position and remained stable thereafter. Before proceeding further, the crew physically verified that the switch was fully secured in the correct position.

The regulator clarified that no abnormal engine parameters, warnings, cautions, or system messages were recorded at any point during the flight. Aircraft performance remained normal throughout the journey.

The crew was briefed about the observation, advised to avoid unnecessary contact with the switch, and instructed to closely monitor engine indications during the flight. The aircraft landed safely at Bengaluru International Airport at 11:47 am, around 33 minutes ahead of schedule.

Post-landing, the observation was recorded in the Pilot Defect Report (PDR). The airline referred the matter to Boeing, following which Air India’s engineering team carried out inspections as per the manufacturer’s recommended procedures.

What exactly was found regarding the fuel switch in the investigation?

According to the DGCA, the investigation found both the left and right fuel control switches to be in technically satisfactory condition. The locking tooth-pole was properly seated, and the switch did not automatically move from the “run" to the “cut-off" position. When force was applied in the correct direction, parallel to the base plate, the switch remained fully secure. No mechanical failure was detected.

Then, why was the switch found to be moving?

The DGCA explained that if pressure is applied from an incorrect angle or direction, the angular base plate design of the switch can cause it to move from “run" to “cut-off". This behaviour is design-related and not a defect. The movement depends on the direction of applied force rather than any technical malfunction.

What tests were conducted under Boeing’s guidance?

Pull-to-unlock force tests were carried out in line with Boeing’s guidelines. These checks were performed on the switches installed on the aircraft, on replacement units, and on switches from other aircraft. In all cases, the force required to unlock the switch was found to be within prescribed limits. The inspection was conducted in the presence of DGCA officials.

What was said about the viral video on social media?

The investigation team reviewed the viral video and found that the switch was being operated in a manner not consistent with Boeing’s recommended procedure. The incorrect method of operation led to misleading visual results, creating the impression of a malfunction.

What further advice has Boeing provided to Air India?

Boeing has advised Air India to circulate the correct operating procedure for the fuel control switch among all crew members. Ensuring correct handling techniques and adherence to standard procedures will help prevent similar misunderstandings in the future.

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