Key Takeaways
• Etihad Airways inspects Boeing 787 fuel control switch locks after Air India Flight 171 crash on June 12, 2025.
• FAA and Boeing confirm no mandatory design changes; inspections remain voluntary but precautionary.
• Simultaneous fuel switches moving to ‘CUTOFF’ after takeoff triggered global industry safety reviews.
Etihad Airways has launched a fleet-wide inspection of its Boeing 787 aircraft, focusing on the fuel control switch locking mechanisms, after the tragic crash of Air India Flight 171 on June 12, 2025. The crash, which killed over 260 people, has raised urgent questions about cockpit safety and prompted airlines and regulators worldwide to review procedures and equipment. The move comes as the aviation industry faces growing pressure to ensure passenger safety while investigations continue.
Immediate Actions After Air India Flight 171 Crash
The crash of Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787-8, shocked the global aviation community. According to the preliminary report from India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), both engine fuel control switches were moved from ‘RUN’ to ‘CUTOFF’ just seconds after takeoff, causing a complete loss of engine power. Cockpit voice recordings captured confusion among the pilots, with neither admitting to moving the switches. This rare event has led to a wave of precautionary measures across the industry.
On July 12, 2025, Etihad Airways responded by issuing a safety bulletin to its pilots and engineering teams. The airline urged pilots to exercise increased caution when handling fuel control switches and warned against placing any objects on the pedestal, which could accidentally move the switches. Pilots must report any irregularities immediately. At the same time, Etihad’s engineering department ordered a fleet-wide inspection of the fuel control switch locking mechanisms on all Boeing 787 aircraft.
Etihad’s Inspection Process and Safety Measures
Etihad’s inspection process is clear and methodical. The airline outlined the following steps for its engineers and pilots:
- Inspect each Boeing 787’s left and right fuel control switches.
- Test if the switches can be moved between ‘CUTOFF’ and ‘RUN’ without lifting the locking mechanism.
- If the switches move freely without lifting:
- The locking feature is faulty.
- The Thrust Control Module (TCM) must be replaced.
- If the switches stay locked unless lifted:
- No further action is required.
- Pilots and crew must report any irregularities or unusual behavior of the switches immediately.
- Avoid placing any objects on or near the pedestal to prevent accidental switch movement.
This approach aims to catch any possible faults before they can cause harm. On July 13, 2025, Etihad flight EY352, a Boeing 787-9, returned to Abu Dhabi mid-flight for a precautionary inspection of the fuel switch locks. The airline later confirmed that no issues were found and that the return was strictly a precaution.
Industry and Regulatory Response
The crash of Air India Flight 171 has put the spotlight on the Boeing 787’s fuel control switch design. The FAA (U.S. Federal Aviation Administration) and Boeing have both stated that the current design, including the locking mechanism, is safe and meets all regulations. The FAA pointed to its 2018 advisory, which recommended—but did not require—inspections of these mechanisms after pilot complaints. Both the FAA and Boeing say there is no evidence of a technical fault that would require a mandatory airworthiness directive.
The AAIB’s preliminary report noted that Air India had not acted on the 2018 FAA advisory. However, the report did not find any mechanical or maintenance faults with the aircraft or engines, nor any issues with fuel quality or pilot health. The focus remains on the unexplained movement of both fuel switches to ‘CUTOFF’ immediately after takeoff.
Other airlines and regulators are also taking action. Singapore Airlines and South Korean authorities have started or are planning similar inspections of their Boeing 787 fleets. South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport is preparing to order checks for all domestic airlines operating Boeing aircraft.
Expert Opinions and Safety Concerns
Aviation safety experts say the rapid, simultaneous movement of both fuel switches to ‘CUTOFF’ is highly unusual. This could point to a rare technical problem or an accidental human action, possibly made worse by cockpit layout or something interfering with the switches. Pilot unions and safety advocates are calling for better training and stricter cockpit procedures to reduce the risk of accidental switch movement.
Regulators and manufacturers are trying to balance caution with the fact that there is no clear evidence of a design flaw. This is why the current approach is to recommend voluntary, precautionary inspections rather than issue mandatory directives.
Background: How the Fuel Control Switch Works
The fuel control switch locking mechanism on Boeing 787s is designed to prevent accidental movement from ‘RUN’ (fuel on) to ‘CUTOFF’ (fuel off). The switch must be lifted before it can be moved, which is supposed to stop accidental shutdowns. The FAA’s 2018 advisory recommended checks for proper installation and function of these locks after some pilots reported problems, but it did not require changes or issue a formal airworthiness directive.
The crash of Air India Flight 171 is the first major incident to bring this issue to the world’s attention. As a result, airlines and regulators are now taking a closer look at the design and operation of these switches.
Statements from Key Stakeholders
Etihad Airways has stressed that its actions are out of “an abundance of caution” and that it is fully following all maintenance protocols. So far, no issues have been found in its fleet. Air India CEO Campbell Wilson said the preliminary report found no mechanical or maintenance issues with the aircraft or engines involved in the crash.
The FAA and Boeing both maintain that the fuel switch locking system is safe and does not need design changes or mandatory directives. The AAIB’s preliminary findings focus on the unexplained movement of both fuel switches to ‘CUTOFF’ right after takeoff, with no evidence yet of a technical fault.
Policy Implications and Practical Effects
The crash and the ongoing investigation have led airlines around the world to review and, where needed, inspect Boeing 787 fuel switch locks. As of July 18, 2025, no mandatory airworthiness directive has been issued by the FAA or other major regulators. However, airlines are taking precautionary measures, which may cause temporary flight delays for inspections or brief groundings for affected aircraft.
There is no evidence of a systemic technical fault so far, but the industry remains on high alert as the investigation continues. Airlines are increasing crew awareness and reviewing cockpit procedures to prevent similar incidents.
What Passengers and Crew Should Know
For passengers, these inspections and safety checks may mean occasional flight delays or changes, but they are meant to keep everyone safe. Airlines like Etihad Airways are acting quickly to check their aircraft and make sure all systems are working as designed.
For crew members, the focus is on careful operation of the fuel control switches and following all safety bulletins. Pilots are being reminded not to place objects near the switches and to report any unusual behavior right away.
Global Impact and Next Steps
The effects of the Air India Flight 171 crash are being felt across the aviation industry. Airlines in Asia, the Middle East, and beyond are reviewing their Boeing 787 fleets. Regulators in countries like South Korea are preparing to issue their own advisories or orders for inspections.
The final AAIB report on the Air India crash is still pending. If it finds a technical or design flaw, further regulatory action could follow. In the meantime, airlines, regulators, and Boeing are closely monitoring the situation and may update inspection protocols if new evidence comes to light.
How Airlines Are Handling the Situation
- Etihad Airways has completed precautionary inspections and found no issues so far. The airline continues to monitor its fleet and update its crews.
- Singapore Airlines and other carriers are conducting or planning similar checks.
- South Korean authorities are preparing to order inspections for all domestic airlines operating Boeing aircraft.
These actions show a strong commitment to safety and a willingness to act even without a formal regulatory order.
Industry-Wide Lessons and Solutions
The incident has highlighted the importance of following safety advisories, even when they are not mandatory. It also shows the need for clear cockpit procedures and regular training to prevent accidental switch movements.
Some experts suggest that airlines should:
- Review cockpit layouts to reduce the risk of accidental switch movement.
- Increase pilot training on the use of fuel control switches and the importance of reporting any irregularities.
- Follow all safety advisories from regulators, even if they are not mandatory.
These steps can help prevent similar incidents in the future and restore confidence in the safety of Boeing 787 aircraft.
Official Resources and Where to Find More Information
Passengers, crew, and industry professionals can find more information and updates from official sources:
- Etihad Airways: Official website
- FAA: FAA Safety Alerts & Directives
- India AAIB: AAIB India
- Boeing: Boeing Customer Support
For the latest updates on airworthiness and safety directives, the FAA’s official page is a reliable source.
Summary of the Current Situation
As of July 18, 2025:
- Etihad Airways and other major airlines are inspecting Boeing 787 fuel control switch locks.
- No mandatory regulatory action has been taken, but industry vigilance is high.
- No technical fault has been confirmed; investigations are ongoing.
- Operational impact is limited to precautionary inspections and increased crew awareness.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect
The aviation industry is waiting for the final AAIB report on the Air India Flight 171 crash. If the report finds a technical or design flaw, regulators may issue new directives, and airlines may need to make further changes. Until then, airlines are taking voluntary steps to ensure safety.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the industry’s quick response shows a strong focus on passenger safety and a willingness to act even without a formal order from regulators. Airlines, regulators, and manufacturers are working together to review procedures, inspect equipment, and keep the flying public safe.
Practical Guidance for Travelers and Industry Professionals
- Travelers: Stay informed about your airline’s safety measures. If your flight is delayed for inspections, know that these steps are taken for your safety.
- Pilots and Crew: Follow all safety bulletins, report any irregularities, and avoid placing objects near critical switches.
- Airlines: Continue regular inspections, update training, and communicate clearly with staff and passengers about safety measures.
Conclusion
The crash of Air India Flight 171 has led to a global review of Boeing 787 fuel control switch safety. While no technical fault has been confirmed, airlines like Etihad Airways are taking strong steps to check their fleets and keep passengers safe. The industry is watching closely for the final AAIB report and stands ready to act if new evidence emerges. For now, the focus remains on careful inspection, clear procedures, and open communication to maintain the highest standards of aviation safety.
Learn Today
Fuel Control Switch → A cockpit lever controlling the engine fuel supply, movable between ‘RUN’ and ‘CUTOFF’ positions.
Locking Mechanism → A safety feature requiring the switch to be lifted before moving, preventing accidental shutdowns.
Thrust Control Module (TCM) → Component managing engine thrust; replaced if fuel switch locking is faulty.
Airworthiness Directive → A mandatory regulatory order requiring specific aircraft inspections or modifications for safety.
Cockpit Voice Recording → Audio captured in the cockpit used to analyze pilot actions during incidents.
This Article in a Nutshell
After the tragic Air India Flight 171 crash, Etihad Airways is thoroughly inspecting Boeing 787 fuel switches, enhancing safety globally. While FAA sees no mandatory fixes, airlines adopt cautious measures to prevent accidental engine shutdowns, emphasizing training and equipment checks. Industry vigilance rises pending final investigation results.
— By VisaVerge.com
