FAA Orders Inspections of 737 Max Aircraft Amid Crack Concerns
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an airworthiness directive for Boeing 737 Max commercial aircraft, requiring inspections of 471 planes in the US fleet.
The directive is a precautionary measure prompted by findings of metal fatigue and cracking in the reinforcement elements of older 737 aircraft. The affected area is located at the forward upper corner of the cutout for the forward galley door on the right side of the fuselage, where a structural reinforcement known as a bear strap is installed.
The inspections will involve a multi-stage process, starting with an external visual inspection to identify any existing repairs or modifications. If abnormalities are detected or if maintenance protocols require it, non-destructive material testing will be necessary, which could cost up to $340 per aircraft.
No actual cracks have yet been reported in scheduled service on 737 Max aircraft, but the FAA has concluded that the current models might be susceptible due to a similar design and comparable manufacturing processes. The inspections are expected to become mandatory for airlines around the world.