Should the AAIB's Initial Probe Be Elevated to a Global Quorum for 787 Aircraft Safety?
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Synopsis
A recent incident involving a 787 aircraft raises critical safety questions. As investigations unfold, the aviation community awaits clarity on why fuel switches were moved to cutoff. This analysis emphasizes the importance of a global approach in ensuring the safety of aircraft operations worldwide.
Key Takeaways
- Take-off and landing are critical flight phases requiring pilot focus.
- Fuel switches must be investigated thoroughly.
- The 787 Dreamliner relies on digital controls that need constant updates.
- All pilot actions are recorded by cockpit cameras.
- Global cooperation is essential for comprehensive safety investigations.
New Delhi, July 12 (NationPress) As a pilot and Safety Management System (SMS) professional, the take-off and landing phases of flight are the most critical. During these moments, complete focus is directed towards flight instruments and manually flying the aircraft to around 2,000 feet before engaging the autopilot.
The thrust setting is performed manually (without autopilot or AUTO THROTTLE) at MAX TAKE OFF THRUST. Attention is on maintaining flight and managing flight controls, not on the throttle quadrant, since thrust is already set to MAX.
The preliminary report from AI 171 suggests that the fuel valves/switches were transitioned to CUT OFF.
It’s improbable that a pilot would intentionally interfere with switches located behind the thrust levers during takeoff. Typically, they would focus on raising the landing gear, which is situated on the front panel, or adjusting the flaps.
The circumstances surrounding the fuel valves/switches being reverted to CUTOFF warrant thorough investigation.
Importantly, the 787 is equipped with a cockpit camera that records all actions of the pilot and co-pilot. Alarmingly, the Preliminary Report fails to mention any reference to this cockpit footage.
The NTSB, FAA, EASA, and AAIB must investigate why the fuel switch was moved to CUT OFF. It is highly unusual for a pilot to cut fuel to both engines at such a critical phase when engine power is essential.
It is crucial to await the complete investigation report. If the fuel cut-off switches activated automatically, as suggested in the AI 171 report, then airlines operating the 787 must examine potential issues with fuel switch runaways in their aircraft.
The 787 Dreamliner is a highly digital and software-driven aircraft that requires constant updates and patches. Should the fuel switches have moved to CUTOFF, the cause of this malfunction must be identified.
Moreover, it should be emphasized that no pilot is foolish enough to tamper with switches in the cockpit’s middle section when their attention is fully directed towards the critical flight instruments during takeoff and landing.
This incident presents a complex investigation for the NTSB, AAIB, Boeing, EASA, Indian DGCA, and UKCAA, necessitating a thorough and comprehensive examination.
It is essential that this investigation incorporates a global perspective, involving ICAO, CAA Canada, and other regulatory bodies overseeing the operation of the 787.
(Mark D Martin is the CEO of Martin Consulting, a leading aviation safety firm in Asia)
Point of View
It is our duty to provide an unbiased perspective on the recent 787 incident. The focus must remain on thorough investigations by relevant authorities to uphold aviation safety standards, ensuring trust and reliability in the airline industry.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the fuel cutoff during the flight?
The preliminary report suggests that the fuel valves/switches were moved to cutoff, but the exact cause is still under investigation.
Why is the cockpit camera footage important?
The cockpit camera records all pilot actions and could provide critical insights into the events leading up to the fuel cutoff.
Who is investigating the incident?
The investigation involves multiple agencies including the NTSB, FAA, EASA, and AAIB, among others.
What should airlines do in light of this incident?
Airlines operating the 787 should review their protocols regarding fuel switch operations and ensure thorough safety checks.
What is the significance of global cooperation in this investigation?
Global cooperation is vital for comprehensive safety oversight and to ensure that all potential risks are identified and mitigated.
