FAA Orders Inspection of Hundreds of 737 Max Jets for Cracks

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an airworthiness directive for hundreds of Boeing 737 Max jets after discovering cracks in the body of the plane. The directive applies to approximately 471 US-registered 737 Max 8s, Max 9s, and Max 8-200 airplanes.

The FAA warned that undetected damage could compromise the structural integrity of the aircraft. Cracks were found on some planes in a structural reinforcement around the forward service door on the right side of the airplane, next to the front galley.

Airlines must inspect the area based on each plane's usage and repair any cracking before returning an affected plane to service. Boeing has changed its manufacturing process to address the issue on newly built airplanes, according to the FAA.