The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced mandatory inspections for numerous Boeing planes. Triggered by reports of cracks in older models, the directive targets specific Boeing 737 Max variants, namely the 737-8, 737-9, and 737-8200. This rule, finalized on Thursday, becomes effective on September 10. The FAA estimates that around 471 aircraft fall under this directive, aiming to rectify the ‘unsafe condition’ reported earlier.
No cracks have been discovered in the Max models so far. However, the problem emerged from reports of cracks in a forward bear strap on several older ‘Next-Generation’ 737 aircraft. Bear straps are essential metal sheets used to reinforce areas around doors and emergency exits. Due to the similarity in design and construction between the Max and these older models, the FAA highlighted the risk of the same crack condition affecting Max jets. The agency emphasized the potential threat to the airplane’s structural integrity if overlooked.
Boeing, based in Virginia, acknowledged this issue previously. The company stated that it has been collaborating with operators over the last six years to address the problem. In 2019, Boeing sent out inspection instructions for the affected Next Generation 737s, and the FAA mandated these checks in 2021. Boeing expanded these inspections to include Max jets, and the recent FAA directive mandates this inspection process.
Boeing expressed support for both the new and existing directives, reaffirming its commitment to assisting airline customers. The FAA’s directive includes inspections of the fuselage skin on planes with existing repairs.
Over recent years, Boeing has faced numerous challenges concerning safety, quality, and production. These difficulties were highlighted following two tragic Max 8 crashes in 2018 and 2019, resulting in the loss of 346 lives. A 2024 incident involving an in-flight panel detachment from a Max 9 operated by Alaska Airlines further compounded these issues.
Despite these challenges, the FAA recently announced that Boeing would be permitted to resume responsibility for certifying all its 737 Max and 787 models.