FAA Orders Inspection for Hundreds of Boeing Planes Amid Crack Concerns

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued instructions for inspections of numerous Boeing aircraft following reports of cracks in several older models. The new rule, made public on Thursday and set to take effect on September 10, impacts specific Boeing 737 Max models: the 737-8, 737-9, and 737-8200. This directive will involve 471 planes, according to FAA estimates.

This measure aims to address the identified ‘unsafe condition’ related to earlier observations of cracks. These problems were noted in the forward bear strap in some older Next-Generation 737 planes, which are reinforcement metal sheets in critical areas like doorways and emergency exits.

Even though no cracks have been found within these particular Max models so far, the FAA observed the Max jets share ‘a similar design and build process’ to older models, potentially making them vulnerable to the same issues. The FAA warned of potential risks to the structural integrity of these planes if the situation remains unaddressed.

Boeing acknowledged it had already detected and communicated the issue. The company shared that it has been cooperating with operators for the past six years, providing inspection guidelines in 2019 for the Next Generation 737s, which the FAA mandated in 2021. Boeing clarified it had also included the Max jets in these inspection routines now officially required by the FAA’s recent directive.

The FAA’s new regulation additionally enforces inspections of the fuselage skin on planes that have previously undergone repairs. Boeing expressed support for both the past and current directives, affirming its ongoing commitment to its airline partners.

Boeing has faced ongoing challenges in safety, quality, and production following two fatal crashes of the Max 8 aircraft that resulted in 346 deaths in 2018 and 2019. There was also an incident in 2024 when a panel detached midflight from a Max 9 plane operated by Alaska Airlines. In recent developments, the FAA announced that Boeing can again assume responsibility for the certification of its 737 Max and 787 planes.