A preliminary investigation into the fatal crash of Air India Flight 171 on June 12, which claimed 260 lives, has revealed a critical and perplexing detail: both engine fuel control switches were moved to the “cut-off” position just seconds after takeoff. This action, typically reserved for engine shutdown after landing, immediately starved the Boeing 787 Dreamliner’s engines of fuel, leading to a rapid loss of thrust and subsequent crash.
The cockpit voice recorder captured a startling exchange: one pilot questioned the other, “Why did you cut it?” to which the second pilot responded, “I didn’t.” This exchange suggests confusion within the cockpit regarding the unexpected switch activation. While the switches were subsequently returned to the “run” position in an attempt to restore power, the aircraft was at too low an altitude (maximum 625 feet) to recover before impact. The entire flight lasted approximately 30-32 seconds.
Investigators are probing the cause of this critical event, considering possibilities ranging from human error—accidental or intentional—to mechanical failure or electronic malfunction. The fuel control switches are designed with safety mechanisms, requiring a deliberate pull-and-move action, making accidental engagement highly improbable.
The report also notes a 2018 FAA Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin that warned of a potential for the locking feature on similar fuel control switches in Boeing aircraft, including the 787, to be disengaged, increasing the risk of inadvertent operation. Air India, however, did not perform inspections related to this advisory as it was non-mandatory.
No definitive cause has yet been determined, and the investigation, involving Indian authorities, Boeing, General Electric, and international participants, is ongoing.
