Air India pilots are demanding the immediate grounding of the airline’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet after a recent incident necessitated the use of an emergency system on one aircraft. This urgent call underscores growing concerns among flight crews regarding the wide-body jets’ operational reliability.
New Delhi – Pilots flying for Air India have reportedly issued a strong demand for the immediate grounding of the airline’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet following a recent incident that necessitated the use of an emergency system on one of the aircraft.
The call for grounding underscores growing concerns among flight crews regarding the operational reliability of the wide-body jets, which are crucial for Air India’s long-haul international routes.
The Incident Under Scrutiny
Details emerging from internal reports suggest that an emergency system was activated during an Air India 787 flight on October 5, 2025. While the specific nature of the emergency system and the flight route have not been publicly disclosed, sources familiar with the matter indicate that the activation prompted significant alarm among the crew, leading to the pilots’ union taking a firm stand.
Pilots Express “Profound Unease”
Representatives of the Indian Commercial Pilots’ Association (ICPA) and other pilot groups within Air India have voiced what they describe as “profound unease” over the incident. They argue that a series of minor technical glitches, culminating in the activation of a critical emergency system, warrants an immediate and thorough safety review before the fleet continues passenger service.
“Our paramount concern is the safety and well-being of our passengers and crew,” stated Captain Rajesh Kumar, a senior Air India pilot and union spokesperson. “The activation of an emergency system, irrespective of the aircraft’s safe landing, is a serious event that demands a complete cessation of operations until a comprehensive investigation unequivocally assures us of the entire 787 fleet’s airworthiness.”
The pilots are reportedly seeking transparent communication from the airline and manufacturer, along with demonstrable corrective actions.
Air India’s Stance and Investigation
Air India officials have acknowledged the incident and the concerns raised by their pilots. The airline has affirmed that it is conducting a full internal investigation into the matter, working in close coordination with all relevant regulatory authorities.
“Safety is, and always will be, Air India’s top priority,” an airline spokesperson commented in a statement. “We are fully committed to thoroughly investigating this incident, cooperating with all regulatory bodies, and engaging with our flight crew to uphold the highest standards of operational safety. We are reviewing the pilots’ concerns as part of this ongoing process.”
As of now, Air India has not confirmed any decision to ground its 787 fleet, emphasizing that investigations are ongoing and decisions will be based on expert findings and regulatory guidance.
Boeing’s Response and Regulatory Oversight
Boeing, the manufacturer of the 787 Dreamliner, is understood to be in close communication with Air India regarding the incident. While the company typically defers to its customers on operational matters, it reiterated its commitment to aircraft safety and reliability.
“We are aware of the reports concerning an Air India 787 and are working closely with our customer,” a Boeing representative stated, requesting anonymity. “The safety and reliability of our aircraft are fundamental, and we stand ready to provide any necessary support as their investigation proceeds.”
India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), is expected to play a critical role, likely initiating its own independent probe into the incident. Any decision regarding the grounding of Air India’s 787 fleet would ultimately fall under the DGCA’s purview, following a comprehensive safety assessment.
A potential grounding, even if temporary, could significantly impact Air India’s operational schedule, particularly its long-haul international routes where the 787 is a key component of its fleet. It also adds to the ongoing scrutiny faced by Boeing regarding the operational integrity of its various aircraft models.
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