The operating crew of Air India’s Amritsar-Birmingham flight reported that the Boeing 787’s Ram Air Turbine (RAT) unexpectedly deployed during its final approach on October 4. Despite this unusual event, the aircraft landed safely, as confirmed by the airline on Sunday, October 5, 2025.
RAT deploys automatically in the eventuality of a dual engine failure or total electronic or hydraulic failure. It uses wind speed to generate emergency power.
Air India said it has cancelled its Birmingham-Delhi flight as the aircraft has been grounded for inspection.
In an official statement, the Tata Group-owned Air India confirmed that the crew of flight AI117 from Amritsar to Birmingham on October 4, 2025, observed the Ram Air Turbine (RAT) deploying during the final approach. Crucially, all electrical and hydraulic systems remained stable, allowing for a safe landing at Birmingham International Airport.
The airline, however, did not share specific details, including the number of people on board.
Alternative arrangements are being made to accommodate the passengers, Air India said in the statement.
This incident brings to mind a previous Air India Boeing 787 plane crash in June of the same year, where potential causes included dual engine failure, hydraulic/electrical system malfunctions, or software errors. The deployment of a RAT in an aircraft is an emergency safety measure.
It’s important to recall that on June 12, Air India’s Boeing 787-8, flight AI 171 bound for London Gatwick, tragically crashed into a medical hostel complex shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad. This devastating accident resulted in the loss of 260 lives, including 241 individuals on board the aircraft.
India’s aircraft accident bureau, Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), is probing the crash.
In its preliminary report released in July, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) indicated that the engine fuel control switches of the ill-fated Boeing 787-8 were cut off just seconds after liftoff. Accounts suggest one pilot questioned the other about the action, who denied initiating it.
The 15-page preliminary report further detailed that the crash occurred approximately 30 seconds after takeoff. While the fuel control switches were reportedly re-engaged later, the rapid deceleration in one of the engines could not be averted.
U.S. aircraft maker Boeing has maintained silence on one of the deadliest air crashes in India in the last three decades.