Aviation
Boeing 787 Caught Again: Fuel Switch Malfunction Forces Grounding
A Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner was grounded by Air India after a potential fuel control switch defect was reported following its London to Bengaluru flight.
Air India is once again in the aviation spotlight after a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner was grounded over a potential safety issue—bringing back memories of last year’s air india plane crash that raised global scrutiny of the aircraft’s systems.
Safety concerns around the Dreamliner’s fuel control components have been under investigation since that incident, and the airline is taking no chances this time.
The affected aircraft, registered VT-ANX, was operating as Air India Flight AI132 from London Heathrow to Bengaluru. It departed London at 19:19 local time on February 1, 2026, and landed safely in Bengaluru at 11:54 on Monday.
According to airline sources, the crew noticed an abnormality after landing and promptly reported it.
Air India confirmed that the aircraft has been grounded as a precaution. In an official statement, the airline said: “We are aware that one of our pilots has reported a possible defect on the fuel control switch of a Boeing 787-8 aircraft. After receiving this information, we have grounded the aircraft and involved the original equipment manufacturer to examine the concern on a priority basis.”
Safety Matters Foundation reported that the issue involved the left engine fuel control switch, which failed to stay locked in the RUN position during engine start, moving instead toward CUTOFF on two attempts. While this occurred on the ground, the foundation cautioned that such behavior could, under certain circumstances, increase the risk of an unintended engine shutdown during flight.
air india proactive grounding of the aircraft underscores the airline’s commitment to passenger safety and meticulous attention to potential risks—especially given the renewed focus on the air india boeing 787 9 fuel system after last year’s fatal accident. Investigations into the component are ongoing, and the airline has promised updates once checks are complete.
Recently, Air India reached an important moment in its transformation journey today, combining network expansion with a visible upgrade in passenger experience. In a single afternoon, the airline launched its first made-for-air india 787-9 into commercial service and, at the same time, restored non-stop connectivity between Delhi and Shanghai after nearly six years.
The twin developments reflect a broader shift underway at the national carrier—one focused on modern aircraft, thoughtfully designed cabins, and a stronger presence on key global routes.
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