The Government of India has issued a detailed rejoinder addressing media reports and social media claims regarding a purported malfunction of the Fuel Cut-Off Switch on an Air India Boeing B787-8 aircraft. The clarification pertains to aircraft VT-ANX, which operated Flight AI-132 (London–Bengaluru) on February 1, 2026, and confirms that the flight was conducted safely with no technical abnormality or safety incident.
Observation During Engine Start in London
During engine start at London, the operating crew observed on two occasions that the fuel control switch did not remain positively latched in the “RUN” position when light vertical pressure was applied. On the third attempt, the switch latched correctly and remained stable.
Before proceeding further, the crew carried out a physical verification to ensure the switch was fully and positively latched in the “RUN” position. At no stage were any abnormal engine parameters, cautions, warnings, or system alerts observed—either during engine start or throughout the remainder of the flight.
The crew briefed the operating member regarding the observation, avoided unnecessary contact with the switch, and closely monitored engine indications and alerting systems for the entire duration of the flight, which was completed without incident.
Post-Landing Inspection and Boeing’s Assessment
Following landing at Bengaluru, the crew recorded the observation in the Post-Defect Report (PDR). Air India referred the matter to Boeing for further technical guidance.
Based on Boeing-recommended inspection procedures, Air India Engineering carried out checks on the fuel control switches and reported the following findings:
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Both left and right fuel control switches were found satisfactory
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The locking tooth/pawl was fully seated and did not slip from “RUN” to “CUTOFF”
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When force was applied parallel to the base plate, the switch remained secure
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When force was applied in an incorrect direction, the switch could move from “RUN” to “CUTOFF” due to the angular design of the base plate, which allows slip if pressed improperly with a finger or thumb
Pull-to-Unlock Force Found Within Limits
In line with Boeing’s communication, the pull-to-unlock force of the fuel cut-off switch was tested using the recommended procedure on:
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The involved fuel cut-off switch
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The fuel control unit to be installed
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The fuel cut-off switch of another aircraft
In all cases, the pull-to-unlock force was found within prescribed limits. These inspections were conducted in the presence of officers from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Social Media Video Deemed Technically Incorrect
Authorities also analysed a video circulating on social media that purportedly demonstrated a malfunction of the fuel cut-off switch. Upon review against Boeing-recommended procedures, it was found that the method shown in the video was incorrect and non-representative of approved operating procedures.
As a precautionary step, Air India has been advised to re-circulate Boeing’s recommended procedure for operating the Fuel Cut-Off Switch among its flight crew to prevent misinterpretation or improper handling.
Conclusion
The clarification firmly establishes that there was no malfunction, no safety risk, and no operational incident involving Air India’s Boeing 787-8 aircraft VT-ANX. All checks confirmed the airworthiness and serviceability of the fuel control switches, and the flight was operated in full compliance with safety procedures. Authorities have urged caution against drawing conclusions from unverified social media content and reaffirmed confidence in established aviation safety protocols.
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