Air India Flight Lands Safely After Emergency Turbine Deployment
Mumbai / Birmingham, Oct 5 (News Report) — A Boeing 787 Dreamliner operating flight AI117 from Amritsar to Birmingham deployed its emergency Ram Air Turbine (RAT) during final approach on October 4, but landed safely. The aircraft has been grounded for inspections.
Turbine Deployment During Approach
The airline reported that while descending towards Birmingham, the RAT unexpectedly activated. However, all electrical and hydraulic systems were functioning normally, and the crew executed a safe landing.
Aftermath And Disruptions
Following the incident, Air India cancelled its return flight AI114 from Birmingham to Delhi. The affected aircraft remains grounded for detailed checks. The airline said alternative arrangements are being arranged for passengers.
About Ram Air Turbine
The RAT is a safety feature that deploys in rare cases of total system failure. It uses airflow during flight to generate emergency power for critical systems when main power sources fail.
Safety Context
This event comes after a tragic crash on June 12 involving another Air India Boeing 787 (Flight AI171), which experienced total engine failure shortly after takeoff. That crash killed 260 people. Investigations are ongoing, and the new incident adds urgency to safety reviews of the Dreamliner fleet.
