Air India Initiates Proactive Safety Audit of Boeing 787 Fuel Systems Following Pilot Alert
Air India has launched a comprehensive inspection protocol targeting fuel control switches across its Boeing 787 fleet, following a critical incident report filed by a senior pilot on February 2. The alert stemmed from a London Heathrow to Bengaluru flight operated by a 787-8 aircraft, where a defect in the fuel control mechanism was identified during standard post-flight procedures. This preemptive measure underscores the carrier's commitment to stringent safety standards and proactive risk management in its long-haul operations. The inspection initiative, while currently limited to Air India's fleet, reflects broader industry vigilance regarding aircraft systems integrity, particularly in next-generation wide-body aircraft like the 787 Dreamliner. Aviation analysts note that such targeted audits are becoming increasingly common as airlines prioritize early detection of potential technical issues, even when they fall within manufacturer-specified tolerances. The move demonstrates Air India's operational maturity in transitioning from reactive maintenance to predictive safety protocols, aligning with global best practices set by leading international carriers. No service disruptions have been reported, indicating the inspections are being conducted during scheduled maintenance windows to minimize operational impact.