FAA Orders Inspections for Cracks on 471 Boeing 737 MAX Planes

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered operators of 471 Boeing 737 MAX planes to inspect for cracks in their body, which could affect their structural integrity.

Indian carriers have over 90 MAX and 55 previous generation B737 NGs in their fleet, with Air India Group and Akasa being the biggest customers. Of these, 19 Akasa planes may need to undergo checks, but Akasa claims that none of its 40 B737 MAX are impacted.

Akasa spokesperson said that the airline's 'youngest fleet' makes it unlikely to reach the inspection threshold before 13 years, which is longer than their current lease period. Boeing has been working with operators on this issue for six years and has conducted engineering analysis to identify the root cause.