FAA Inspects Hundreds of Boeing 737 Max Jets for Structural Cracks

The Federal Aviation Administration has ordered inspections of hundreds of Boeing 737 Max jets due to cracks found in the body of the planes. The directive applies to an estimated 471 U.S.-registered Boeing 737 Max 8s, Max 9s, and Max 8-200 airplanes.

Cracks were discovered on some planes in a structural reinforcement around the forward service door on the right side of the airplane, next to the front galley. Airlines must inspect the area based on each airplane's usage and repair any cracking before returning an affected plane to service.

The FAA has not ordered the aircraft grounded, saying that the required inspection intervals provide multiple chances to detect cracks before they compromise the airplane's structural integrity.