FAA Orders Inspections of Nearly 500 Boeing 737 Max Jets

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered inspections of over 471 Boeing 737 Max jets, following reports of cracks near the forward galley door. The directive affects in-service models of the new-generation Max jet, including the 737-8, 737-9, and 737-8200.

The FAA said the cracks could spread to the fuselage and compromise structural integrity if left unchecked. Boeing has been working with airlines since identifying the issue six years ago and says the inspections are similar to those done for older generation 737NG jets in 2021.

Operators have until September 10, 2026, to complete the inspections, which will involve checking the fuselage skin for cracks. The FAA estimates that detailed visual and eddy-current inspections could take up to 4 work-hours per aircraft, costing around $340 per inspection cycle, with a maximum cost of $160,140 per cycle.