Air India 171 Crash Probe: Unraveling the Fuel Switch Mystery

A preliminary report into the tragic crash of Air India flight 171 in Ahmedabad has brought a concerning 2018 report to light. This earlier document flagged a potential malfunction with the Boeing 787’s fuel control switch, specifically highlighting a possible issue with its locking mechanism.

Did a Faulty Fuel Switch Contribute to the Air India 171 Crash?

The 2018 report, while acknowledging the fuel control switch concern, didn’t deem the issue “unsafe” at the time. However, its resurgence in the context of the AI171 crash investigation raises serious questions. The report referenced a serviceability bulletin issued regarding the Boeing 787, suggesting a potential vulnerability in the fuel system.

FAA Advisory and Air India’s Response Under Scrutiny

Following the bulletin, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) advised airlines to conduct specific inspections. The preliminary report indicates that Air India seemingly did not carry out these recommended inspections. Investigators are now meticulously examining the potential connection between the fuel control switch issue, the FAA advisory, and the circumstances surrounding the devastating crash of Air India 171.