FAA Orders Crack Inspections for 471 Boeing 737 Max Jets

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered inspections for hundreds of Boeing planes after reports of cracks in some older models. The directive affects certain aircraft under three Boeing 737 Max models: the 737-8, 737-9, and 737-8200. The FAA estimates this covers 471 planes.

The issue was first reported on older 'Next-Generation' 737 planes, which have a similar design and build process to the newer Max jets. The FAA warned that if left unchecked, the cracks could 'adversely affect the structural integrity of the airplane.'

Boeing stated that it had previously identified and reported the issue and had been working with operators on it for six years. The company also noted that it had already expanded inspections to Max jets and supported both the FAA's directive and its own efforts.