Mumbai, India – Pilots from the Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) are sounding the alarm over the safety of Boeing 787 aircraft, pointing to repeated electrical problems and worries about maintenance quality.
Captain CS Randhawa, the FIP president, told reporters that the organization wants all Indian Boeing 787s grounded for a full, clear‑cut inspection of their electrical systems. “We have seen the same faults pop up again and again,” Randhawa said. “If we don’t address them now, the safety of passengers and crew is at risk.”
The call comes after two Air India flights – AI‑117 and AI‑154 – suffered serious technical glitches last week. AI‑117’s autopilot failed during approach, while AI‑154 had a total loss of its autopilot, instrument landing system and flight‑director controls. Both planes were forced to fly manually at night and diverts, one landing safely in Dubai.
“We can’t let this happen again,” Randhawa said. “Air India needs a thorough check, and that starts with bringing all 787s out of service until the investigations are complete.”
The pilots’ group has also urged the Ministry of Civil Aviation for a judicial inquiry into the recent Air India crash of flight 171, which still lacks a formal probe. They say the way the Aircraft Investigation Bureau (AIB) is handling the investigation is unsatisfactory.
Another point of concern is maintenance. Last year, Air India ended its contract with Air India Engineering Services Ltd (AIESL), a government firm that maintained its fleet, and hired a new crew of engineers. According to Randhawa, these new hires lack the experience needed for the complex 787 systems. “This could be why we’re seeing so many electrical issues now,” he added.
FIP’s latest letter to the minister, dated October 10, lists every technical mishap in the last two weeks and calls for a Grounding Order for all Air India 787s. The letter also demands a special audit from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Air India’s maintenance practices, especially how it releases Minimum Equipment List (MEL) changes.
Air India has denied any serious electrical failures on AI‑154, and has stated it will cooperate with regulators. Meanwhile, pilots across the country are keeping a close eye on the next steps.
Key terms: Boeing 787 safety, electrical failures, Air India, FIP, pilot concerns, grounding, maintenance, DGCA audit, judicial probe.
Source: aninews
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
