FAA Orders Inspections of Hundreds of Boeing 737 Max Jets Over Potential Cracking Issue

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered inspections of hundreds of Boeing 737 Max aircraft due to concerns about potential cracking in the fuselage. According to an FAA airworthiness directive, the issue affects approximately 471 U.S.-registered planes.

Boeing stated that the problem was initially identified on certain 737 Next Generation aircraft and has not been observed on the 737 Max fleet. However, since the two models share similar designs and manufacturing processes, inspections were expanded to include the Max aircraft.

The directive requires operators to inspect the fuselage skin and conduct additional inspections or repairs if necessary. Boeing said it has been working with operators on this issue over the past six years and has implemented changes to the manufacturing process to prevent the problem.