A preliminary report into the Air India crash that killed 260 people last month has raised questions over the position of critical engine fuel cutoff switches. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, bound for London from Ahmedabad, lost thrust and sank after its engines were starved of fuel due to the nearly simultaneous flipping of these switches.
The report, released by India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), suggests that Boeing and engine maker GE had no apparent responsibility for the accident. However, experts have questioned how the switches could have flipped to the cutoff position during flight, as a pilot would not be able to accidentally move them.
CCTV footage shows a backup energy source deployed shortly after takeoff, indicating a loss of power from the engines. One pilot asked his co-pilot why he had cut off fuel, with the co-pilot responding that he did not do so.
The AAIB report has sparked fresh questions over Air India’s reputation and revamp plans, which were already under scrutiny following the crash. The investigation is ongoing, with the US National Transportation Safety Board thanking Indian officials for their cooperation.
Boeing and GE have continued to support the investigation, while GE Aerospace did not respond immediately to a request for comment. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency has also planned to investigate Air India Express due to non-compliance with directives.
The crash has raised concerns over pilot training and safety protocols, particularly given the high experience levels of the pilots involved. The AAIB is expected to release a final report within a year, following international rules for reporting on air crashes.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/india-finds-engine-switch-movement-fatal-air-india-crash-no-immediate-action-2025-07-11