FAA and Boeing Confirm Safety of Fuel Switch Locks

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Boeing have both confirmed the safety of fuel switch locks on Boeing aircraft, following a recent Air India crash investigation. According to a document reviewed by Reuters and corroborated by four sources, the FAA issued a Continued Airworthiness Notification on July 11. This notification followed a preliminary report on a Boeing 787-8 crash that resulted in the tragic loss of 260 lives. The report raised concerns about the engine fuel cutoff switches.

FAA’s Position on Airworthiness

The FAA’s notification, directed at Civil Aviation Authorities, clarified that despite similarities in the fuel control switch design across various Boeing models, there is no unsafe condition warranting an Airworthiness Directive. This includes the Model 787. The FAA has not provided further comments beyond this notification.

Boeing’s Response to Safety Concerns

Boeing echoed the FAA’s stance in a Multi-Operator Message sent to airlines, stating that no action is recommended at this time. When approached for comments, Boeing deferred to the FAA’s notification.

Air India’s Compliance and Investigation Details

The preliminary investigation by India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) referenced a 2018 FAA advisory. This advisory suggested, but did not mandate, inspections of the fuel cutoff switches on several Boeing models, including the 787. Air India reported that it had not conducted these inspections as they were not mandatory.

Pilot Association Calls for Fair Inquiry

ALPA India, representing Indian pilots within the International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations, has rejected any presumption of pilot error. They are advocating for a fair and fact-based inquiry, with their president, Sam Thomas, urging for pilot representation in the investigation process.

Insights from Cockpit Voice Recorder

The cockpit voice recorder revealed a conversation between pilots questioning the unexpected cutoff of fuel. The report noted that fuel switches flipped from run to cutoff shortly after takeoff but did not explain how this occurred.

Support for ALPA India’s Request

Two U.S. safety experts have supported ALPA India’s request to participate as observers in the investigation. John Cox, a former ALPA representative, stated that the AAIB’s report appeared objective and fair.