FAA Inspects 737 Max Jets for Cracks Amid Safety Concerns
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered inspections of hundreds of Boeing 737 Max jets due to cracks in the body of the plane. The issue affects an estimated 471 U.S.-registered 737 Max 8s, Max 9s, and Max 8-200 airplanes.
The cracks were found on some planes in a structural reinforcement around the forward service door on the right side of the airplane. Airlines must inspect the area based on each airplane's usage and repair any cracking before returning an affected airplane to service.
Boeing has changed its manufacturing process to address the issue on newly built airplanes, according to the FAA. The agency did not order the aircraft grounded, saying the required inspection intervals provide multiple chances to detect cracks before they could compromise the airplane's structural integrity.