An Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner flying from Amritsar to Birmingham experienced an unusual in-flight event on Saturday when its emergency Ram Air Turbine (RAT) deployed mid-descent. Despite the unexpected activation, the aircraft landed safely, and all electrical and hydraulic systems were reported normal by the airline.
The incident occurred on flight AI117 during its final approach to Birmingham Airport, prompting Air India to ground the aircraft for further inspections. As a result, the return flight AI114 from Birmingham to Delhi was cancelled, with alternative arrangements being made for affected passengers.
The Ram Air Turbine (RAT) is a safety mechanism designed to deploy automatically when an aircraft experiences a total power loss. The turbine, a small fan-like device, generates emergency electrical and hydraulic power using the force of incoming airflow, allowing pilots to maintain control and complete a safe landing.
Notably, the Boeing 787-8 model was previously involved in a June incident at Ahmedabad, where the RAT deployed following engine shutdowns due to a fuel supply cutoff. The interim probe of that event highlighted the RAT’s role in safeguarding the aircraft during emergencies.
Air India reassured passengers, stating: “The operating crew detected deployment of the Ram Air Turbine during final approach. All electrical and hydraulic parameters were found normal, and the aircraft performed a safe landing. Safety of passengers and crew remains our top priority.”
Authorities are carrying out a thorough inspection of the aircraft as a precautionary measure to ensure continued operational safety.
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