FAA Orders Inspections for 737 MAX Jets Amid Cracking Concerns

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered mandatory inspections on nearly 500 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft in the country. The order may also affect up to 1,500 airliners worldwide.

The issue stems from a problem found on earlier generations of the 737, where cracks developed in the bear strap around the forward galley cabin door. This strap reinforces areas around doorways and emergency exits, but over time, the stress of takeoffs and landings can lead to cracking near door corners.

Boeing first warned airlines about this issue in the MAX in 2024. The FAA's order sets a timeline for mandatory inspections to catch cracks before they become a safety issue. So far, Boeing reports that no cracks have been found in any Max jets specifically.