Air India’s Boeing 787-8 aircraft was grounded following a pilot defect report involving the left Fuel Control Switch; DGCA directs further inspection at OEM facility

India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has ordered detailed inspection of the Fuel Control Switch (FCS) of an Air India Boeing 787-8 aircraft after a technical issue was reported following a London Heathrow–Bengaluru flight earlier this year.

According to an official statement issued by the DGCA, the incident involved Air India aircraft VT-ANX operating flight AIC-132 from London Heathrow Airport to Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru on February 2, 2026.

The aircraft was subsequently grounded after pilots recorded a defect related to the left Fuel Control Switch in the Pilot Defect Report.

Key Highlights

• DGCA orders inspection of Air India Boeing 787-8 Fuel Control Switch
• Incident involved Air India flight AIC-132 from London Heathrow to Bengaluru
• Pilot report noted left Fuel Control Switch slipping from “RUN” to “CUTOFF”
• Aircraft VT-ANX grounded after post-flight technical observation
• OEM inspection conducted in presence of DGCA officers
• OEM states switch was mechanically functioning as designed
• DGCA directs continued airworthiness inspection at OEM facility

What Happened on the Flight?

According to the regulator, the issue was identified after completion of the London Heathrow–Bengaluru sector when pilots observed that the left Fuel Control Switch could slip from the “RUN” position to “CUTOFF” when pushed slightly and did not lock firmly in place.

The observation was formally recorded in the aircraft’s Pilot Defect Report, prompting immediate grounding of the aircraft for inspection and technical evaluation.

Fuel Control Switches are critical cockpit components used to regulate engine fuel supply during aircraft operations.

DGCA Conducts Inspection With OEM

Following the report, the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) recommended detailed inspection and functional testing procedures for the Fuel Control Switches.

Air India subsequently carried out inspections in accordance with OEM-prescribed protocols in the presence of DGCA officers.

After reviewing the test results and evidence submitted, the OEM concluded that the Fuel Control Switch was mechanically operating as designed and declared the unit serviceable.

However, as part of continued airworthiness monitoring, the DGCA has now directed that the switches undergo additional inspection at the OEM’s facility under DGCA supervision.

Aviation Safety and Operational Significance

While the regulator has not indicated any immediate operational safety threat, the incident highlights the importance of continuous technical monitoring and preventive maintenance in long-haul aviation operations.

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet plays a significant role in India’s international aviation network, especially on long-haul sectors connecting India with Europe, North America and Asia-Pacific markets.

Impact on Travel, Hospitality & Tourism Industry

Passenger Confidence Remains Key for International Aviation

Incidents involving technical inspections and aircraft grounding are closely monitored by the travel and tourism industry, particularly as international passenger traffic continues to grow.

For airlines and hospitality stakeholders, operational transparency and strong regulatory oversight remain critical in maintaining traveller confidence.

Importance for Business and Premium Travel Markets

The London–Bengaluru corridor is an important route for:

• Corporate travel
• Technology sector movement
• International tourism
• Premium and long-haul passengers

Any operational disruptions on such routes can impact hotel bookings, business travel schedules and airline-hospitality partnerships linked to international tourism flows.

DGCA Oversight Reinforces Safety Monitoring

The DGCA’s decision to conduct inspections in the presence of regulatory officers signals continued emphasis on technical compliance, aircraft airworthiness and passenger safety standards in India’s aviation sector.

The development also underscores the increasing scrutiny around fleet maintenance and operational reliability as Indian carriers continue to expand international connectivity.