FAA Orders Inspections for Hundreds of Boeing 737 Max Jets Amid Crack Concerns

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered inspections for hundreds of Boeing planes following reports of cracks in some older models. The directive applies to certain aircraft under three Boeing 737 Max models: the 737-8, 737-9, and 737-8200, which covers 471 planes. According to the FAA, no cracks have been found in these specific Max models yet.

The issue was first identified in older 'Next-Generation' 737 planes, where reports of cracks in a forward bear strap led to concerns about the structural integrity of the airplane. The FAA noted that the Max jets have a similar design and build process as the older models, making them susceptible to the same crack condition.

Boeing stated that it previously identified and reported this issue, working with operators on it over the past six years. The company had already expanded inspections to include Max jets before the FAA's latest directive, which requires inspections of the fuselage skin of planes with existing repairs.