FAA Orders Inspections on Nearly 500 Boeing 737 MAX Aircraft Amid Structural Concerns

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered operators to inspect nearly 500 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft after cracks were discovered in the structural reinforcement near the forward service door.

The new airworthiness directive affects an estimated 471 U.S.-registered Boeing 737 MAX 8, MAX 9, and MAX 8-200 aircraft. The affected area is located around the forward right-hand service door, adjacent to the aircraft's front galley.

According to the FAA, undetected cracking in the reinforcement could weaken the fuselage structure and reduce the aircraft's overall structural integrity. Airlines will be required to inspect the affected area according to intervals determined by each aircraft's age and utilization.

The FAA has not ordered the aircraft to be grounded, saying the prescribed inspection schedule provides sufficient opportunities to identify damage before it reaches a critical level. The directive will take effect on September 10, 2026.