Air India Crash: Junior Pilot Questioned Fuel Switches Moments Before Tragic Accident
Air India crash probe reveals junior pilot questioned captain about fuel switches being off moments before both engines failed, leading to the fatal accident.
image for illustrative purpose

Just seconds before the Air India Express crashed, a junior pilot had asked the captain about crucial fuel system settings, according to a shocking discovery made during the ongoing inquiry into the tragedy.
Relatively unfamiliar with the Boeing 737 aircraft model, the first officer observed that the fuel crossfeed switches, which are essential parts governing fuel distribution, were off during a critical portion of the flight, according to official sources involved with the investigation. The plane had already lost thrust in both engines when the junior pilot allegedly questioned the captain about why they were taking off.
A catastrophic outcome resulted from a critical mistake.
Although the aircraft had enough fuel overall, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) investigators think it ran out of usable gasoline in the active tanks. Because the crossfeed switches were off, the fuel was not adequately transported between tanks, and both engines flamed out just before landing.
This development calls into question the management of cockpit resources, situational awareness, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Sequence of Events 🛫
The plane was on final approach on its way from Dubai to Kozhikode when both of its engines failed, which is a very uncommon incident in commercial aviation. The plane crashed into a field after the pilots failed to make it to the runway after attempting a glide. Many people were hurt, and sadly, a few passengers lost their lives.
CRM & Training 🧑✈️
A comprehensive examination of cockpit communication methods and Crew Resource Management (CRM) training is being demanded by aviation professionals under scrutiny. "It's a red flag when a junior pilot identifies a critical anomaly and it remains unresolved or unaddressed," a senior airline captain who was not engaged in the case stated.
Similar incidents in the history of international aviation when fatalities were caused by a lack of communication or disregard for warnings are echoed in this episode.
DGCA Reacts with Air India
A comprehensive safety examination has been started by the DGCA, and Air India Express has grounded some aircraft models for preventative maintenance. The airline has pledged complete cooperation and is helping the relatives of the victims.
Air India Express said in a statement that "we are committed to implementing any safety recommendations that emerge from the investigation and are working closely with authorities to support it."
📊 Next Steps?
In the upcoming weeks, final results from the crash investigation should be available. All airlines are being urged by aviation authorities to strengthen essential safety procedures and guarantee that strong crew coordination procedures are in place.