Investigation Underway into AI 171 Incident Involving Boeing 787 Dreamliner

The AI 171 incident involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner has raised significant safety concerns, particularly regarding the unexpected activation of fuel cut-off switches during critical flight phases. As investigations by various aviation authorities commence, the focus will be on understanding the circumstances that led to this alarming situation. With cockpit recordings available, the findings could have far-reaching implications for all operators of the 787. Experts emphasize the need for a thorough examination to ensure the safety of future flights. Stay tuned for updates as the investigation unfolds.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 12, 2025, 12:51 IST

Critical Phases of Flight and Safety Concerns

New Delhi, July 12: As a pilot and safety management professional, it is widely acknowledged that the most crucial moments during a flight are take-off and landing. During these phases, pilots concentrate on flight instruments and manually control the aircraft until reaching approximately 2,000 feet, at which point autopilot is typically engaged.

The thrust setting is manually controlled, utilizing maximum take-off thrust, allowing pilots to focus on maintaining flight and managing flight controls, rather than adjusting the throttle quadrant.

According to the preliminary report regarding AI 171, which could have significant implications for all operators of the Boeing 787, it has been noted that the fuel valves or switches were switched to the 'cut off' position.

It is improbable that any pilot would intentionally adjust switches located behind the thrust levers during take-off. The primary focus would be on actions such as retracting the landing gear or adjusting the flaps, which are more critical at that moment.

The circumstances surrounding the fuel valves being turned to 'cut off' warrant thorough investigation.

Importantly, the 787 is equipped with a cockpit camera that records all actions taken by the pilot and co-pilot. Surprisingly, the preliminary report does not mention any reference to the cockpit camera footage.

Authorities including the NTSB, FAA, EASA, and AAIB must conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine why the fuel switches were turned off. It is unlikely that a pilot would deliberately cut fuel to both engines during a critical phase requiring maximum engine power.

It is essential to await the complete investigation report. If the fuel cut-off switches were indeed activated automatically, as suggested by the initial report, airlines operating the 787 should assess and investigate potential issues related to fuel switch malfunctions.

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is a highly digital and software-driven aircraft that requires regular updates and patches. If the fuel switches were triggered to 'cut off', identifying the cause of this malfunction is crucial.

Moreover, it is important to emphasize that no pilot would recklessly manipulate switches in the cockpit's middle section while concentrating on the primary flight instruments during take-off and landing.

This incident presents a complex challenge for investigators from the NTSB, AAIB, Boeing, EASA, the Indian DGCA, and the UKCAA, and a thorough investigation is essential.

It is vital that this investigation includes global oversight, involving ICAO, CAA Canada, and other regulatory bodies responsible for the safety of 787 aircraft operations in their respective jurisdictions.

(Mark D Martin is the CEO of Martin Consulting, a prominent aviation safety firm in Asia)