Wall Street Journal Report Cites Fuel Switch Operation
The ongoing investigation into the 12 June crash of an Air India Boeing 787 near Ahmedabad is now focusing on the actions of the aircraft’s captain, Sumeet Sabharwal. According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, cockpit voice recordings indicate that the captain may have turned off both engine fuel control switches just seconds after takeoff — a decision that led to complete engine failure and the eventual crash.
The co-pilot, First Officer Clive Kunder, reportedly questioned the action during the flight, the report states. The aircraft, en route to London from Ahmedabad, plunged into a building adjacent to B.J. Medical College within 30 seconds of takeoff. Only one of the 242 people onboard survived, and 19 others died on the ground.
Fuel Switches Later Found in “Run” Mode
According to preliminary findings referenced by The Wall Street Journal, investigators recovered both switches in the “run” position, suggesting the flight crew attempted to restart the engines. However, the aircraft had already lost critical altitude by that point, making recovery impossible.
No Technical Malfunction Found
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has so far found no mechanical issues with the aircraft. The fuel control mechanisms, including the locking features designed to prevent accidental shutdown, were functioning correctly. Investigators have not yet determined whether the switches were turned off accidentally or deliberately.
Government and Manufacturer Actions
India’s aviation regulator has issued a directive for all airlines to inspect fuel control systems in Boeing 787 aircraft by 21 July. Boeing, GE, and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration are working with Indian authorities on the investigation. Air India has begun internal checks of its Dreamliner fleet as a precaution.
While the final conclusions are still pending, the Wall Street Journal’s report marks the first publicly documented focus on pilot action as a possible cause of the crash. Authorities continue to analyze black box data and flight systems to determine the full sequence of events.
