Boeing Ordered to Inspect Hundreds of 737 Max Jets Amid Crack Reports

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) 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.

According to the FAA, no cracks have been found in these specific Max models so far. However, the agency has received reports of cracks in a forward bear strap for several older 'Next-Generation' 737 planes, which are made of metal sheets that reinforce areas on planes like doorways and emergency exits.

The issue is similar to one previously reported by Boeing, where it identified and reported the problem six years ago. The company sent operators inspection instructions for the affected Next Generation 737s in 2019, and the FAA later mandated those checks in 2021.