FAA Mandates Inspections for Hundreds of Boeing 737 Max Jets

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an order for inspections on hundreds of Boeing 737 Max jets due to concerns over cracks in some older models. The directive affects 471 planes, including the 737-8, 737-9, and 737-8200 models.

So far, no cracks have been found in these specific Max models. However, the FAA notes that the aircraft has a similar design and build process as the older 'Next-Generation' 737 planes, which experienced issues with forward bear straps.

A bear strap is a metal sheet that reinforces areas on planes like doorways and emergency exits. The FAA warned that if not addressed, this issue could affect the structural integrity of the airplane.

Boeing has acknowledged the problem and stated that it identified and reported the issue six years ago. The company claims to have been working with operators on inspections for affected Next Generation 737s since 2019, which were later mandated by the FAA in 2021.