FAA Orders Inspections for Cracks in Boeing 737 Max Fuselages

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an airworthiness directive for Boeing 737 Max planes, requiring inspections of their fuselages due to potential cracks in a component called the bear strap.

The directive affects approximately 471 aircraft and follows reports of similar issues on older Boeing models. According to the FAA, no cracks have been found in the 737 Max yet, but the design and build process makes it susceptible to developing them.

Boeing has acknowledged working with airlines since 2019 after first identifying the issue and notified them of the potential problem. The company supports both directives and continues to support its airline customers.