Air India Crash: Engine Fuel Switches Under Scrutiny

The devastating Air India crash that resulted in the loss of 260 lives is under intense investigation. A preliminary report has revealed a critical detail: the Boeing 787’s engine fuel control switches were momentarily turned off just seconds after the plane left the ground. This action effectively starved the engines of fuel.

What are Fuel Control Switches and Why Do They Matter?

Fuel control switches manage the flow of fuel to the aircraft’s engines. Turning them off, even briefly, can disrupt this flow and lead to engine failure, especially during the critical takeoff phase. Investigators are working to understand why these switches were deactivated and the precise role this played in the tragic accident.

The Next Steps in the Investigation

The investigation is ongoing, with experts meticulously analyzing flight data, wreckage, and pilot procedures to piece together a complete picture of the events leading to the crash. Understanding the circumstances surrounding the fuel switch deactivation is a key priority for investigators seeking to prevent similar tragedies in the future.