FAA Orders Inspections for Hundreds of Boeing 737 Max Jets Over Cracking Concerns
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an airworthiness directive requiring inspections of hundreds of Boeing 737 Max aircraft due to concerns about potential cracking in the fuselage.
The FAA's order affects an estimated 471 U.S.-registered planes, including the 737 Max 8, Max 9, and Max 8-200 models. The inspections will focus on the fuselage skin and bear strap, which may lead to a loss of structural integrity in the event of cracks.
Boeing stated that the issue was initially identified on certain 737 Next Generation aircraft and has not been observed on the 737 Max fleet. However, the company expanded inspections to include Max models due to similar designs and manufacturing processes.
The FAA's directive is scheduled to take effect on September 10, 2026, and Boeing has already begun implementing changes to its manufacturing process to prevent the issue.