FAA Orders Inspections of 737 Max Jets Over Cracking Concerns

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered airlines to inspect their Boeing 737 Max jets for cracks in a critical component. The directive affects 471 aircraft, including models 8, 9, and 8200, which are used by various airlines around the world.

The issue is related to a part that reinforces the front-door frame of some 737 planes. According to Boeing, this component requires an inspection of the fuselage panelling, as stated in the airworthiness directive.

The FAA has given airlines until September 10 to conduct these inspections. The agency said that if left unchecked, the cracks could compromise the structural integrity of the affected part.

Boeing claims it has been working with airline customers for six years to address this issue and has already conducted an engineering analysis to prevent future cracking.