Boeing Faces Inspection Orders for Hundreds of 737 Max Jets

The Federal Aviation Administration has ordered inspections for hundreds of Boeing planes, following reports of cracks in some older models. The directive affects 471 aircraft under three Boeing 737 Max models: the 737-8, 737-9, and 737-8200.

So far, no cracks have been found in these specific Max models. However, when proposing the rule back in November, the FAA noted it had received reports of cracks in a forward bear strap for several older 'Next-Generation' 737 planes. Bear straps are metal sheets that reinforce areas on planes like doorways and emergency exits.

The FAA estimates that about 471 Boeing planes will be affected by this directive. This includes models with the same design and build process as the older 'Next-Generation' 737s, making them susceptible to the same crack condition. The agency warned that if left unaddressed, the issue could adversely affect the structural integrity of the airplane.

Boeing has acknowledged that it previously identified and reported this issue, and has been working with operators on it for over six years. The company sent inspection instructions for affected Next Generation 737s back in 2019, and the FAA later mandated those checks in 2021. Boeing's statement added that they had already expanded those inspections to Max jets.