Oman Air Conducts Extra Fuel Switch Checks on Boeing 787 and 737

In response to global aviation safety concerns, Oman Air has confirmed that it has carried out extra precautionary checks on the fuel switch systems of its Boeing 787 and 737 aircraft, reinforcing its ongoing dedication to top-tier safety standards.

The move comes as part of a broader industry response following technical reviews related to fuel control mechanisms across various Boeing aircraft.

“In line with regulatory guidance, we have conducted extra fuel switch checks on all of our Boeing 787 and 737 aircraft as a precautionary measure and as part of our ongoing commitment to the highest safety standards,” said Captain Nasser Al Salmi, Chief Operating Officer of Oman Air, in an exclusive statement to Times of Oman.

Currently, Oman Air operates a fleet of eight Boeing 787s and 23 Boeing 737s.

Although Boeing and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have stated that the fuel switch locks are functioning safely, several global carriers—including Etihad Airways and Singapore Airlines—have opted to implement additional safety protocols.

India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has also issued a mandate requiring airlines to complete precautionary checks on all 787 and 737 aircraft by July 21, following the preliminary findings of India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) regarding a recent crash in Ahmedabad.

The AAIB’s early report pointed out that the fuel control switches were found in the "cutoff" position, sparking international debate over whether the incident stemmed from pilot error or mechanical failure.

Fuel switches are small but critical components located beneath the throttle levers in the cockpit’s center console. On aircraft like the Boeing 787, each engine has its own switch. These switches are safeguarded by physical brackets and spring-loaded to prevent accidental activation, requiring deliberate upward pressure to move.

Earlier this week, Etihad Airways advised its pilots to recheck fuel switches on its 787 fleet as an added measure.

Oman Air’s swift action reflects the industry’s heightened focus on preemptive maintenance and safety-first operations, with airlines proactively aligning with both regulatory directives and best practices amid increased scrutiny.