FAA Orders Crack Inspections for Hundreds of Boeing 737 Max Jets

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

The FAA estimates that this covers 471 planes and is using this directive to address 'the unsafe condition' tied to prior reports of cracks in a forward bear strap for older 'Next-Generation' 737 planes. Bear straps are metal sheets that reinforce areas on planes like doorways and emergency exits.

Boeing has been working with operators on the issue over the past six years, having previously identified and reported it. The company sent operators inspection instructions for the affected Next Generation 737s back in 2019, and the FAA later mandated those checks in 2021.