FAA Orders Inspections for Boeing 737 Max Planes Due to Crack Concerns
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has mandated inspections for hundreds of Boeing planes after reports of cracks in certain older models. Announced this week, the rule goes into effect on September 10, targeting three Boeing 737 Max models: 737-8, 737-9, and 737-8200. This directive is applicable to an estimated 471 aircraft. The FAA aims to address safety concerns linked to previous reports of structural cracks.
No cracks have been detected in these specific Max models yet. However, when the rule was first proposed in November, the FAA had received reports of cracks in the forward bear strap of several older ‘Next-Generation’ 737 models. Bear straps are metal reinforcements commonly used in planes at entryways and emergency exits. Due to a resemblance in design and manufacturing between these models and the Max jets, the FAA cautioned that the latter could face similar crack issues, potentially compromising structural integrity if unaddressed.
Boeing identified and reported this issue in advance. The company has been collaborating with operators over the past six years to handle it. Boeing issued inspection instructions for the affected Next-Generation 737s in 2019, followed by a mandatory inspection by the FAA in 2021. The inspection requirement has since expanded to include Max jets, with the FAA’s latest directive enforcing this practice.
Boeing expressed its support for the FAA’s directives and continues to assist airline customers. Additionally, the FAA’s directive requires inspections of fuselage skin on planes that have undergone prior repairs.
In recent years, Boeing has faced multiple safety, quality, and production issues. Notable incidents include two tragic crashes involving the Max 8 model that resulted in 346 fatalities in 2018 and 2019. There was also a 2024 incident where a panel detached from a Max 9 during a flight operated by Alaska Airlines. Recently, the FAA announced that Boeing would regain the authority to certify all its 737 Max and 787 planes.