FAA orders crack inspections for hundreds of Boeing 737 Max jets

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has mandated inspections for numerous Boeing aircraft, including the 737-8, 737-9, and 737-8200 models, following reports of cracks in certain older planes. This directive, set to take effect on September 10, covers approximately 471 planes. The FAA has designated this as a response to "the unsafe condition" linked to previous reports.

Although no cracks have been discovered in the specified Max models so far, the FAA had previously received reports of cracks in a forward bear strap for several older "Next-Generation" 737s. Bear straps are metal sheets that fortify sections of planes, such as doorways and emergency exits. The FAA has explained that the Max jets share a similar design and production process with the older models, making them vulnerable to the same crack issue.

Boeing has acknowledged identifying and reporting this problem, having provided operators with inspection instructions for the affected Next Generation 737s in 2019. The FAA had earlier mandated these checks in 2021. Boeing has stated that it has expanded these inspections to Max jets, and it agrees with the FAA's latest directive.