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 10th, applies to 471 planes under three Boeing 737 Max models: the 737-8, 737-9 and 737-8200.
The FAA estimates that no cracks have been found in these specific Max models so far, but they noted that the Max jets have a similar design and build process to older models, making them susceptible to the same crack condition. The agency warned that if left unchecked, this issue could adversely affect the structural integrity of the airplane.
Boeing has been working with operators on this issue for six years, having previously identified and reported it in 2019. The company said it sent inspection instructions to affected Next Generation 737s back in 2019, and the FAA later mandated those checks in 2021. Boeing added that they had already expanded those inspections to Max jets.
The directive also requires inspections of the fuselage skin of planes with existing repairs. This move comes as Boeing continues to face safety and production challenges, including two deadly crashes involving the larger Max 8 that killed 346 people in 2018 and 2019.