FAA Mandates Structural Inspections for 471 Boeing 737 MAX Aircraft

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an airworthiness directive requiring mandatory structural inspections for 471 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft operating in the United States.

The regulatory action follows findings of potential fuselage cracks near the forward galley door cutout, specifically targeting a critical reinforcement component known as the bear strap.

Federal officials announced the directive on August 8, 2026, citing evidence of cracking around the door frame in earlier aircraft designs that share similar manufacturing processes.