FAA Targets Boeing 737 Seats Over Safety Concerns

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed an airworthiness directive aimed at tens of thousands of passenger seats on Boeing 737 aircraft. The directive, which affects 453 planes, targets installations where aft fitting shear plungers are not correctly engaged.

This could lead to the seats disengaging during severe turbulence or emergency landings, potentially causing injury or blocking evacuation paths. The FAA's plan requires detailed inspections and corrective actions for affected aircraft.

Boeing has stated that it will support the directive and may cover compliance costs under warranty. Most of the affected planes have already undergone inspections, according to Boeing. The FAA's notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) was released on August 5, 2026.