The Air India Boeing 787-8 crash near Ahmedabad on 12 June 2025 revealed critical vital information about aircraft emergency systems. The preliminary investigation by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau identified fuel cut-off to both engines as the primary cause. This led to the deployment of the ram air turbine (RAT), a device crucial in maintaining essential power during such failures.
Aircraft Power Systems and the Boeing 787-8
The Boeing 787-8 is a highly electrified aircraft. Its engines are the main power source. When both engines lost fuel supply, the plane’s electrical and hydraulic systems were at risk. This made the RAT deployment necessary to sustain vital functions.
What Is a Ram Air Turbine (RAT)?
A RAT is a small turbine that provides emergency power. It is normally stowed inside the wing or fuselage. The RAT remains inactive during normal engine operation. It deploys automatically or manually when main power is lost.
How Does the RAT Work?
Once deployed, the RAT extends into the airstream. The airflow spins its blades. This rotation drives a generator or hydraulic pump. The RAT produces limited but critical power for flight controls, instruments, and communication equipment. The faster the aircraft moves, the more power the RAT generates.
Deployment Mechanism of the RAT
The RAT is held by an up-lock inside its storage bay. When triggered, a spring-loaded actuator releases this lock. The turbine then pivots or slides into the airstream. Linkages and actuators ensure it is optimally positioned to reduce turbulence and improve efficiency. Some designs use struts to extend the RAT into cleaner airflow, especially during crosswind conditions.
Importance of the RAT in Flight Safety
Although the RAT cannot provide full aircraft power, it ensures the plane remains controllable. It supports essential systems until a safe landing can be made. RAT deployment is a vital safety feature in modern commercial aviation.
Case Study – Air India Ahmedabad Crash
The incident brought into light how the RAT functioned as designed. Despite engine failure, the RAT allowed pilots to maintain control. This prevented a potentially greater disaster. The event puts stress on the importance of emergency power systems in aviation safety.
Advancements and Challenges
Modern aircraft increasingly rely on electric systems. Emergency devices like the RAT must evolve to meet higher power demands. Engineers continue to improve RAT designs for better reliability and efficiency under diverse flight conditions.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss in the light of the Air India Boeing 787-8 crash how emergency power systems like the ram air turbine enhance aviation safety.
- Analyse the significance of electrification in modern aircraft and its impact on flight safety and emergency response mechanisms.
- Taking examples of recent aviation incidents, critically discuss the role of technology and human factors in aircraft accident investigations.
- Examine the challenges of integrating emergency power systems in aircraft design and how they influence pilot decision-making during critical failures.
