ABU DHABI— An Etihad Airways (EY) flight destined for Hyderabad (HYD) had to make an unexpected return to Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) due to urgent safety inspections. This decision came shortly after a report highlighted concerns regarding recent flight incidents involving Air India (AI), especially following the tragic crash in Ahmedabad (AMD).
The precautionary measure taken by Etihad is attributed to preliminary investigations into the AI171 crash that occurred on June 12, revealing that the fuel switches had switched to the “cut-off” position shortly after takeoff, an action that resulted in the loss of engine power.
The Etihad Airways Boeing 787 was instructed to return to AUH shortly after its departure as a safety measure. The incident unfolded in the wake of early findings from Indian authorities about the Air India aircraft crash that tragically took the lives of 270 individuals, including 52 British citizens. The investigation underscored significant concerns regarding the fuel management systems utilized in the Boeing Dreamliner.
In confirming the aircraft’s return, a spokesperson from Etihad reiterated the airline’s commitment to abiding by comprehensive safety protocols set by both manufacturers and regulators. The airline acted preemptively in light of the heightened scrutiny surrounding the Boeing 787 fuel systems, despite the fact that the flight did not showcase any technical issues at the time.
Despite no malfunctions during the flight, the airline opted for complete adherence to established safety practices as proactive measures in context of the recent crash.
Air India Crash Investigation
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) report on the Air India incident pointed to both fuel switches on the Boeing Dreamliner incorrectly shifting to “cut-off” immediately following takeoff, culminating in engine thrust loss. While there has been no blame directed towards the pilots, cockpit voice recordings hinted at a denial by one pilot regarding switching off the fuel.
Campbell Wilson, Air India’s CEO, acknowledged that the investigation is ongoing and asserted that routine checks across the fleet revealed no technical anomalies. He emphasized that the aircraft undergoing the incident had successfully passed all mandatory pre-flight inspections, including breathalyzer and health evaluations for the pilots.
The report did not issue particular recommendations for Boeing or engine manufacturers but highlighted the unresolved nature of the fuel switches’ behavior. Meanwhile, the FAA has assured international regulators that no current safety threats linger regarding the Boeing 787’s fuel systems.
Impact on Airlines and Aviation Safety
The incident involving Etihad serves as a crucial reminder of how a singular accident can provoke widespread caution in the aviation industry, especially when the underlying causes are yet unresolved. Fuel switches, typically utilized in emergencies, are now being closely examined for potential human error or mechanical malfunction.
Etihad’s decision reflects a broader industry tendency toward proactive risk management, as other airlines utilizing the Boeing 787 are reportedly conducting thorough internal checks, although no similar incidents have surfaced thus far.
As investigations progress, it is anticipated that aviation regulators and airlines globally will keep a vigilant eye on the outcomes, particularly those that may potentially reshape aircraft design, maintenance protocols, or cockpit procedures.
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I am an aviation journalist; I have been with Aviation A2Z for the past three years and possess strong expertise in the aviation domain. My coverage primarily focuses on aerospace, Indian aviation, and airlines. I also contribute to various global aviation publications and continuously expand my expertise, connections, and knowledge within the aviation industry.
Based on an article from aviationa2z.com: https://aviationa2z.com/index.php/2025/07/16/etihad-flight-with-boeing-787-u-turn-to-abu-dhabi/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=etihad-flight-with-boeing-787-u-turn-to-abu-dhabi
