Etihad urges 787 pilots inspect fuel control switches

Etihad urges 787 pilots inspect fuel control switches

In a bulletin dated July 12, Etihad Airways issued a directive to its pilots, urging them to exercise extreme caution when operating the fuel control switches on Boeing 787 aircraft. The advisory also emphasized being careful around any other switches or controls located near the fuel control switches. This precautionary measure follows internal assessments aimed at maintaining the highest safety standards. Pilots have been instructed to be vigilant during all phases of flight and to report any irregularities or concerns.

Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways has issued a precautionary directive to its pilots, urging them to exercise heightened caution when operating fuel control switches on its fleet of Boeing 787 aircraft. The directive, issued on July 12, also instructs engineering teams to carry out detailed inspections of the locking mechanisms associated with these critical controls.

This move follows renewed global attention on the fuel control switch system after India’s aviation safety investigation body released preliminary findings into the tragic crash of an Air India Boeing 787-8 on June 12. Though the full report is still awaited, the early observations have prompted action not just from Etihad, but also stirred responses from aviation safety regulators worldwide.

FAA’s Earlier Warning Revisited

Central to the concern is the behavior of the locking mechanism on the 787’s fuel control switches—devices essential for controlling the flow of fuel to each engine. Back in 2018, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had already raised a red flag about the possibility of these locks disengaging unexpectedly, potentially leading to unintended engine shutdowns or other anomalies. The FAA had issued an advisory circular urging airlines and aviation authorities globally to monitor this issue and take preventive measures where necessary.

With the Indian Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) referencing this specific FAA bulletin in their latest communication following the June crash, international carriers have been prompted to revisit their own safety protocols.

Etihad's Directive to Pilots

In its latest safety bulletin to flight crews, Etihad emphasized the importance of vigilance while operating the 787’s center pedestal—the area between the captain and first officer that houses the thrust levers, autopilot functions, and fuel control switches.

The instruction is a reminder to pilots to be deliberate and precise in their actions, especially during high-pressure situations such as takeoff, descent, and in-flight troubleshooting—moments when inadvertent movements can have outsized consequences.

In addition, Etihad has explicitly advised its crews to ensure that no loose objects—such as pens, flight manuals, tablets, or personal belongings—are placed near or on the pedestal. The airline cautioned that even a small object could accidentally interfere with switch positions, especially in turbulent conditions.

Engineering Teams Mobilized

While the cautionary advice to pilots is aimed at mitigating human-factor risks in the short term, Etihad has also taken concrete technical steps to address the root of the issue.

The document, addressed to Etihad’s engineering and technical teams, includes a detailed, step-by-step guide to physically inspect the switches and verify the proper engagement of their locking features. If any discrepancies or abnormal wear are found, the instructions call for an immediate replacement of the affected thrust control module—the unit housing the switches.

The inspection is to be conducted at the earliest possible maintenance window, ensuring no delay in identifying and addressing potential faults. Engineers have been briefed to document findings meticulously and submit reports to both the airline’s safety office and the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

A Broader Industry Concern

Etihad is not alone in taking these steps. Other international carriers operating the Boeing 787 Dreamliner are also expected to reexamine their own systems and procedures in light of the Indian probe and the FAA’s earlier advisories. While the root cause of the Air India incident has yet to be confirmed, the convergence of past regulatory concern and current real-world events has placed this issue squarely in the spotlight.

A senior Etihad operations official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: “The safety of our passengers and crew is our utmost priority. While the 787 has proven to be one of the most reliable aircraft in commercial aviation, this is a reminder that vigilance is constant. We’re taking this matter seriously and will take any step necessary to ensure the safe operation of our fleet.”

Learning From Tragedy

The Air India crash on June 12 sent shockwaves through the global aviation community, not just because of the loss of life but due to the aircraft involved—a Boeing 787, The Indian authorities are continuing their detailed investigation into the incident, and a full report with conclusive findings is expected in the coming months.

However, aviation experts stress that the industry’s strength lies in its ability to learn from even preliminary indicators. “This is what modern aviation safety is all about,” said a former FAA inspector now working as a safety consultant. If something could be a problem, you act early and decisively.”

Reaffirming Safety Culture

Etihad’s proactive steps are in line with the culture of safety that modern carriers strive to maintain. By issuing advisories and technical instructions ahead of formal mandates, airlines demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding not just their own operations, but contributing to the global learning process in aviation.

As investigations continue and new insights emerge, it is expected that more airlines and perhaps even Boeing itself may issue revised guidance on the matter. For now, Etihad’s move sets an example of responsiveness and caution, qualities that are especially vital in times of uncertainty.

Passengers flying with Etihad and other major carriers can rest assured that the industry continues to prioritize their safety through continuous improvement—responding swiftly, learning constantly, and acting with transparency.