India’s DGCA Initiates Review – Etihad Becomes First Airline to Begin Inspections
Etihad Airways Launches Inspections on Its B787 Fleet Following DGCA’s Mandatory Audit Directive
India takes preventive measures against potential fuel control system risks in Boeing and McDonnell Douglas aircraft.
On July 14, 2025, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) of India issued an official directive mandating inspections of fuel control systems on certain aircraft types registered in the country. The DGCA has required that all inspections be completed by no later than July 21, 2025.
This directive is based on the FAA’s Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB NM-18-33) issued on December 17, 2018. In its bulletin, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) warned that the fuel control switch lock mechanism on some Boeing and McDonnell Douglas aircraft could potentially disengage, posing a safety risk.
In response to DGCA’s directive, Etihad Airways has initiated a technical inspection process on its Boeing 787 fleet. The airline is conducting the inspections in line with the technical criteria outlined by the FAA.
Industry sources emphasize that such technical precautions are critical to maintaining aviation safety and underline that the swift response by international carriers to local authorities like the DGCA once again highlights the importance of a strong safety culture.
