In the aftermath of the tragic June 13 Air India crash in Ahmedabad, which claimed 260 lives, Etihad Airways has issued a critical safety bulletin to its pilots
In the aftermath of the tragic June 13 Air India crash in Ahmedabad, which claimed 260 lives, Etihad Airways has issued a critical safety bulletin to its pilots operating Boeing 787 aircraft. The internal directive calls for heightened caution when handling fuel control switches and adjacent cockpit controls — a move initiated in response to preliminary findings from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) of India.
The AAIB’s preliminary report, released on July 12, indicated a startling revelation — both engines of the ill-fated Air India Boeing 787 aircraft shut down moments after takeoff. Investigators found that the two essential fuel control switches shifted from the ‘RUN’ to ‘CUTOFF’ position within seconds, halting fuel supply and causing engine failure. The cockpit voice recorder captured one pilot in disbelief, saying, “Why did you cut off?”, followed by the other’s stunned reply, “I didn’t.”
While the exact cause is still under investigation, the report has heightened global aviation safety awareness and brought scrutiny to the design and operation of fuel control switches in modern aircraft.
Etihad’s Proactive Safety Measures
Etihad Airways acted swiftly. On July 12 — the same day the AAIB findings were released — the airline issued a pilot bulletin urging extreme caution around the cockpit pedestal, where the fuel control switches are located.
The bulletin instructed flight crews to:
Additionally, Etihad engineers have been tasked with a technical review of the Boeing 787 fuel control systems across its fleet. This includes an in-depth inspection of the locking mechanisms to ensure they are functioning correctly and securely engaging, as per manufacturer guidelines.
Though alarming, the incident does not indicate an inherent design flaw in the Boeing 787 aircraft. Both Boeing and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have stated that the fuel switch system is consistent across multiple Boeing aircraft models and meets all safety certification standards. The FAA concluded that the switches themselves are not defective and do not require an Airworthiness Directive.
Nonetheless, Etihad’s decision to issue an advisory reflects a broader industry trend of erring on the side of caution. The safety of passengers and crew remains paramount, and airlines globally are reviewing similar systems to rule out the possibility of unintentional engagement or design oversights.
On Boeing 787 aircraft, the fuel control switches are essential components that regulate the fuel flow to the engines. The switches toggle between ‘RUN’ (for normal operation) and ‘CUTOFF’ (which halts fuel delivery, effectively shutting down the engine). These are typically locked in place during flight, requiring intentional manual operation for movement.
However, the Air India incident has raised questions about whether inadvertent contact, improper locking, or even object interference in the cockpit could lead to accidental switch activation.
While aviation remains one of the safest modes of transport globally, incidents like the Air India crash serve as reminders of the importance of continual safety evaluations. Etihad’s prompt action underscores the industry’s commitment to proactive risk mitigation — even when systems are technically compliant.
Airlines worldwide are expected to take note of Etihad’s bulletin. Some may follow suit by launching their own technical reviews or updating cockpit operational procedures, especially around sensitive controls.
As the investigation into the Air India crash continues, further updates from Indian authorities and global aviation regulators are anticipated. Until then, Etihad Airways’ decision stands as a commendable example of responsible aviation leadership.
FAQs
Etihad issued the caution following the preliminary crash report of the Air India Boeing 787, where both fuel switches unintentionally shifted to ‘CUTOFF’, leading to engine shutdown. The advisory is a preventive step to avoid similar risks.
No, Boeing 787 aircraft remain certified and safe. The FAA and Boeing have confirmed that the fuel control switch design is consistent with safety standards and does not require any urgent corrective directive.
Etihad has asked pilots to avoid placing loose objects near fuel switches, handle cockpit controls with extra care, report any irregularities, and initiated a technical review of its 787 fuel switch systems.
Theoretically, yes — if the switches are not properly locked or if external objects interfere. This is why Etihad has urged pilots to take added precautions to ensure they remain in the correct position.
While no regulatory changes have been announced, this incident has prompted airlines to re-examine cockpit procedures. It may lead to revised guidelines or manufacturer advisories in the future.
