Why Did DGCA Order Inspections of Boeing’s Fuel Switch System?

DGCA’s Inspection Order: Ensuring Aviation Safety
In response to the June 2024 Air India Boeing 787-8 crash, India’s DGCA has directed airlines to inspect the fuel control switch locking mechanism in most Boeing aircraft by July 21, 2024. The move aligns with a 2018 FAA advisory that warned of potential disengagement in these switches.

Key Highlights:
Air India Crash Investigation: The preliminary report revealed that both engines failed due to fuel starvation after the fuel control switches moved from ‘RUN’ to ‘CUTOFF’ mid-flight.
FAA’s 2018 Advisory: The FAA had issued a Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) after reports of faulty fuel switch locks in some Boeing 737s. However, since it was non-mandatory, many airlines, including Air India, skipped inspections.

Global Response: Some international carriers, like Etihad Airways, proactively inspected their Boeing 787 fleets despite Boeing’s assurance that the switches were safe.
DGCA’s Proactive Step: Unlike the FAA’s advisory, DGCA’s directive is mandatory, emphasizing India’s stricter aviation safety stance.

Why the Fuel Switch Matters:
The fuel control switch regulates fuel flow to the engines.
A malfunction can cut off fuel supply mid-flight, leading to engine failure.
The switch has a locking mechanism to prevent accidental movement, but defects can compromise safety.

Exam-Relevance:
UPSC/State PSCs: Covers disaster management, regulatory bodies (DGCA, FAA, ICAO), and aviation safety policies.
SSC & Banking Exams: Current affairs on government actions and international coordination.
NID/NIFT/KAS: General awareness on technology, safety protocols, and crisis response.


Sample Questions & Answers for Competitive Exams:
Q1: What prompted DGCA to order inspections of Boeing aircraft fuel switches?
Ans: The directive followed an Air India Boeing 787-8 crash investigation, where faulty fuel control switches caused engine failure. DGCA acted on a 2018 FAA advisory about potential defects.
Q2: What is the function of a fuel control switch in an aircraft?
Ans: It regulates fuel supply to the engines, with positions for ‘RUN’ (operational) and ‘CUTOFF’ (shut-off).
Q3: How does DGCA’s order differ from the FAA’s 2018 advisory?
Ans: The FAA’s SAIB was non-mandatory, while DGCA’s inspection is compulsory for Indian airlines.
Q4: Which international body sets global aviation safety standards?
Ans: The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) establishes worldwide aviation safety norms.
Q5: Why is this development significant for disaster management?
Ans: It highlights proactive risk mitigation, regulatory oversight, and the importance of international safety advisories in preventing aviation disasters.