Boeing Inspections Ordered After Cracks Found in Older Model Jets

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered inspections of hundreds of Boeing 737 Max jets after cracks were found in parts of some older model Boeing planes. The directive applies to 471 planes in the U.S. and 1,429 planes worldwide.

The cracks were discovered in the structural reinforcement around the forward service door near the galley on the right side of some older generation 737 planes. The FAA said these cracks had developed over time due to the stress of takeoffs and landings.

Boeing, the manufacturer of the 737 Max jets, has stated that it first notified operators of its 737 Next Generation planes of the issue in 2019, providing them with instructions for conducting recommended inspections. Although no cracks have been found in Boeing Max jets specifically, Boeing extended the inspections to 737 MAX airplanes due to their similar design and build process.

Southwest Airlines, one of the primary operators of 737 jets in the U.S., has stated that it is reviewing the FAA's airworthiness directive and will accomplish the inspections on affected airplanes according to the specified schedule.