MUMBAI: An Air India flight operating from Amritsar to Birmingham experienced an unexpected technical issue when the Boeing 787’s Ram Air Turbine (RAT) deployed during its final approach on October 4, 2025. However, the operating crew managed to perform a safe landing at Birmingham, the Tata Group-owned airline confirmed in a statement on Saturday.
The Ram Air Turbine (RAT) is an emergency system designed to automatically deploy and use wind speed to generate necessary electrical and hydraulic power, primarily in the event of a dual engine failure or a complete electrical or hydraulic system failure.
Air India stated that the operating crew of flight AI117 detected the RAT deployment while approaching the airport. Despite the automatic deployment, the crew found that “All electrical and hydraulic parameters were found normal,” ensuring the aircraft’s safe arrival.
Following the incident, the aircraft has been grounded for a thorough inspection. As a result, Air India has canceled its subsequent Birmingham-Delhi flight. Alternative arrangements are being made to accommodate the affected passengers. The airline did not disclose the number of people on board the flight at the time of the incident.
Context of Recent Air India Crash
This deployment occurs against the backdrop of heightened scrutiny following the tragic Air India Boeing 787-8 crash in June this year. That aircraft, operating flight AI 171 en route to London Gatwick, crashed into a medical hostel complex shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on June 12, killing 260 people, including 241 onboard.
India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is currently probing the June crash, with initial findings pointing to potential human error. The AAIB’s preliminary report in July stated that the engine fuel control switches were cut off seconds after the aircraft lifted off. The report noted that while the switches were subsequently turned back on, the deceleration in one of the engines could not be halted. US aircraft maker Boeing has maintained silence regarding one of India’s deadliest air crashes in the last three decades.
