FAA Orders Inspections for Hundreds of Boeing Planes Amid Crack Reports
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered inspections for hundreds of Boeing planes following reports of cracks in some older models. The directive, which takes effect on September 10, applies to certain aircraft under three Boeing 737 Max models: the 737-8, 737-9, and 737-8200. According to the FAA, this covers approximately 471 planes.
The inspections are a response to reports of cracks in forward bear straps for older 'Next-Generation' 737 planes. Bear straps are metal sheets that reinforce areas on planes like doorways and emergency exits. While no cracks have been found in the specific Max models affected, the FAA noted that they share a similar design and build process with the older models.
Boeing previously identified and reported the issue and has been working with operators to address it over the past six years. The company had already expanded inspections for the affected Next-Generation 737s to include the Max jets, but the FAA's directive now mandates this process for all applicable planes.