Fuel switch activation a two-step process

Each engine has its own switch, located at the base of the throttle levers on the central control pedestal.

- DEEPAK PATEL

What are fuel control switches? These switches can be set to two positions: RUN, which allows fuel to flow to the engine, and CUTOFF, which stops fuel supply and shuts down the engine.

To prevent accidental activation, the switches are spring-loaded and require a two-step process: the pilot must pull the switch outward and then rotate it.

This deliberate motion ensures that the switches cannot be bumped or moved unintentionally.

Pilots typically operate the fuel control switches during two key phases: at engine start-up on the ground and during engine shut-down after landing.

Outside of these, the switches are used only in very specific in-flight emergency situations—such as an engine fire, severe damage to the engine, or other serious malfunctions—when the crew needs to quickly cut off fuel to prevent further hazard.