The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, once considered one of aviation’s safest aircraft, has experienced several significant incidents throughout its operational history. The Boeing 787 has been involved in eight accidents and incidents as of June 2025, including one fatal hull loss. Here’s a comprehensive chronological breakdown of every major incident involving this revolutionary aircraft.
Table of Contents
1. Japan Airlines Boston Battery Fire (January 7, 2013)
The incident that changed everything for the Dreamliner program occurred at Boston’s Logan International Airport. A Japan Airlines (JAL) 787 experienced a fuel leak on January 8, 2013, and its flight from Boston was canceled. This battery fire in a parked aircraft became the catalyst for worldwide scrutiny of the 787’s lithium-ion battery system.
Key Details:
- Aircraft was parked at the gate when the APU battery caught fire
- A lithium-ion battery that caught fire aboard a parked Boeing 787 in 2013 in Boston had design flaws and it should not have been certified by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration
- Led to immediate investigation and eventual global grounding
2. All Nippon Airways Emergency Landing (January 16, 2013)
All Nippon Airways Flight 692, en route from Yamaguchi Ube Airport to Tokyo Haneda, had a battery problem warning followed by a burning smell while climbing from Ube about 35 nautical miles west of Takamatsu, Japan. This became the most serious in-flight battery incident.
Key Details:
- The aircraft diverted to Takamatsu and was evacuated via the slides; three passengers received minor injuries during the evacuation
- The aircraft registered JA804A was carrying 137 passengers and crew and was performing a domestic route between Ube and Tokyo
- Inspection revealed a battery fire
3. Global Grounding Period (January 16 – April 26, 2013)
Following the ANA incident, the Federal Aviation Administration grounded all 787s. This unprecedented action affected airlines worldwide:
- The Japanese Transport Ministry formalized JAL and ANA’s groundings. In Europe, EASA grounded the 787. LAN, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines and Air India also grounded their aircraft
- The grounding lasted over three months while Boeing redesigned the battery system
- The cause was found to be a short-circuit within one of the battery cells
4. United Airlines Battery Overheating (November 13, 2017)
A lithium-ion battery overheated on a United Airlines Boeing 787 during approach to Charles de Gaulle Airport. This incident occurred years after the supposed “fix” to the battery system, raising concerns about the long-term reliability of the solution.
Key Details:
- Incident occurred during approach phase
- No emergency landing required
- Highlighted ongoing battery system vulnerabilities
5. Various Minor Incidents (2014-2024)
Between the major battery incidents and the recent fatal crash, the 787 experienced several smaller incidents that didn’t make international headlines but contributed to the overall safety record:
- Fuel system malfunctions
- Hydraulic system issues
- Engine-related diversions
- Minor electrical problems
- Landing gear complications
6. Air India Flight AI171 Fatal Crash – Ahmedabad (June 12, 2025)
The most tragic incident in 787 history occurred when Air India Flight AI171 crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
Key Details:
- Aircraft: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner (VT-ANB)
- Route: Ahmedabad to London Gatwick
- Passengers and Crew: 242 people on board
- Time: Approximately 13:38 IST
- Location: Crashed in Meghaninagar area near the airport
- Significance: First fatal hull loss for the 787 program
The Impact on Boeing and Aviation
Financial Consequences
The 787 incidents have had significant financial impacts:
- The 2013 grounding cost Boeing billions in modifications and compensation
- The recent Ahmedabad crash caused Boeing shares to plunge nearly 7% in pre-market trading
- Insurance claims and legal settlements continue to affect the bottom line
Safety Improvements
Each incident led to improvements:
- Battery system redesign with enhanced containment
- Improved maintenance protocols
- Enhanced pilot training programs
- Stricter quality control measures
Regulatory Response
Aviation authorities worldwide have:
- Implemented stricter oversight of new aircraft certification
- Enhanced battery safety requirements
- Improved incident reporting systems
- Increased manufacturer accountability
The 787’s Safety Record in Context
Despite these incidents, it’s important to note that prior to the Ahmedabad crash, the 787 maintained one of the best safety records in commercial aviation. The aircraft had flown millions of hours and carried millions of passengers safely. However, the recent fatal crash marks a tragic milestone for what was previously considered an exemplary safety record.
Looking Forward
As investigations into the Ahmedabad crash continue, the aviation industry will closely examine:
- Whether this incident represents a new type of 787 vulnerability
- The effectiveness of previous safety improvements
- The need for additional regulatory oversight
- Public confidence in the Dreamliner program
The Boeing 787 story continues to evolve, with each incident providing valuable lessons for aviation safety and aircraft design. While the recent fatal crash represents a devastating setback, the comprehensive investigation will likely yield important insights for the future of commercial aviation safety.
