FAA Orders Crack Inspections for Hundreds of Boeing 737 Max Jets
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered inspections for hundreds of Boeing 737 Max jets after reports of cracks in some older models. The directive, which takes effect on September 10, covers 471 planes under three Boeing 737 Max models: the 737-8, 737-9 and 737-8200.
No cracks have been found in these specific Max models so far, but the FAA is taking precautions due to similarities with older 'Next-Generation' 737 planes that have reported cracks. The agency warned that this issue could compromise the structural integrity of the airplane if not addressed.
Boeing has acknowledged the issue and stated that it had previously identified and reported it in 2019, sending inspection instructions to operators for affected Next Generation 737s. The company added that it had already expanded these inspections to Max jets before the FAA's latest directive.