Air India upgrades Boeing 787 Dreamliners after FAA safety directive

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration issued an airworthiness directive after reports that door‑assist handles on certain Boeing 787‑8, 787‑9 and 787‑10 aircraft could become loose. In response, Air India is installing the required modifications on its fleet of 35 Dreamliners – 26 Boeing 787‑8s and nine Boeing 787‑9s – in a phased schedule during routine maintenance.

The upgrades add a new retainer, placards and inspections of the forward and aft door‑assist handles to prevent possible injury to crew or passengers and to avoid evacuation complications. Air India says the work is precautionary, has not grounded any aircraft, and flight operations continue as normal.

The airline’s move illustrates the collaborative safety processes between manufacturers, operators and regulators, ensuring that even minor issues are addressed before they affect service.