An Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner narrowly avoided a potential disaster after its pilots forgot to perform a critical pre-flight check, delaying the flight and raising serious safety concerns.
The incident occurred on Flight AI-171 from Hyderabad to Bengaluru when the crew failed to switch on the aircraft's fuel supply before takeoff. The oversight was only detected after the plane had been pushed back from the gate, forcing an embarrassing return.
Safety Procedures Ignored
According to aviation sources, the pilots neglected to activate the fuel cutoff switches - a basic but vital step in pre-flight preparations. This crucial error meant the aircraft couldn't properly pressurise its fuel system for the journey.
Passengers reported sitting on the stationary plane for nearly an hour before being informed of the 'technical issue'. The flight eventually departed after a 90-minute delay once the proper procedures were followed.
Growing Concerns Over Air India Safety
This latest incident adds to growing concerns about safety standards at Air India following its acquisition by Tata Group. Aviation experts warn that such basic errors could have catastrophic consequences if not addressed.
'Forgetting fuel switches is like a driver forgetting to check their petrol gauge,' said Captain Rohan Sharma, an aviation safety consultant. 'These are fundamental checks that should be second nature to any professional pilot.'
Investigation Underway
Air India has launched an internal investigation into the incident. In a statement, the airline said: 'We regret the delay caused to our passengers. Safety remains our utmost priority, and we are reviewing procedures to prevent recurrence.'
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been informed and may conduct its own inquiry into whether this points to wider training issues at the airline.
This incident follows several other operational mishaps for Air India in recent months, raising questions about the airline's rapid expansion plans under its new ownership.
