US FAA Orders Inspections on Nearly 500 Boeing 737 Max Jets Over Structural Integrity Concerns

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered inspections of nearly 500 Boeing 737 Max jets over concerns about cracks in a crucial component that could compromise the planes' structural integrity.

The affected area involves a reinforcement component for the front-door frame on some 737 planes, which requires an inspection of the fuselage paneling. This check applies to in-service models of the new-generation Max jet, including the 8, 9, and 8200 variants.

According to Boeing, the FAA-mandated checks stem from similar inspections for older generation 737NG jets in 2021. The company has been working with airline customers over the past six years after identifying the issue and has already conducted an engineering analysis to prevent future cracking.