Air India Crash: FAA Defends Boeing's Fuel Switches Amid Ongoing Investigation
Published 13 July 2025
Highlights
- The FAA maintains that Boeing's fuel control switches are safe despite their involvement in the Air India crash that killed 260 people in June.
- A preliminary report revealed that the fuel switches on the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner moved to the "cut-off" position shortly after take-off.
- The Indian Commercial Pilots' Association defends the crew, urging against speculation of pilot error or suicide without evidence.
- Families of victims demand a transparent investigation, seeking clarity on mechanical flaws or procedural lapses.
- A final report on the crash is expected in 12 months, with ongoing international collaboration in the investigation.
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reiterated the safety of Boeing's fuel control switches following their involvement in the tragic Air India crash in June, which resulted in 260 fatalities. The crash of Flight 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad airport has become one of the most severe aviation disasters in recent years.
Preliminary Findings and Safety Concerns
A preliminary report by India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Branch (AAIB) highlighted that the aircraft's fuel switches moved from "run" to "cut-off" just after take-off, cutting off fuel supply to the engines. This incident has drawn attention to a 2018 FAA advisory that recommended inspections of the switches' locking features, though it was not mandatory. The FAA, however, does not consider this an unsafe condition warranting an Airworthiness Directive.
Defense of the Crew and Call for Responsible Reporting
The Indian Commercial Pilots' Association (ICPA) has come forward to defend the crew, emphasizing that they acted according to their training under challenging conditions. The association criticized media speculation suggesting pilot suicide, calling it irresponsible and unfounded. The preliminary report does not assign blame to the pilots, and the ICPA insists on waiting for the final investigation results before drawing conclusions.
Families Seek Transparency and Accountability
Families of the victims, including those of British nationals who perished, have expressed dissatisfaction with the initial report, calling for a more transparent investigation. They seek clarity on potential mechanical flaws or procedural lapses that could prevent future tragedies. Ishan Baxi, a relative of two victims, stressed the need for accountability and real changes to aviation safety protocols.
Ongoing Investigation and Future Steps
The investigation, involving experts from Boeing, General Electric, and international regulators, is expected to conclude with a detailed report in 12 months. The FAA has pledged to continue sharing relevant information with global aviation authorities. Meanwhile, families and legal representatives continue to push for answers and justice.
What this might mean
As the investigation progresses, the focus will likely remain on identifying any mechanical or procedural failures that contributed to the crash. The final report could lead to changes in aviation safety regulations, particularly concerning the design and inspection of fuel control switches. The outcome may also influence how airlines implement safety advisories, potentially leading to stricter compliance measures. The aviation community will be watching closely to ensure that lessons are learned to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
