Boeing 737 Max ‘too old’, the FAA’s maxi inspection of 1,429 planes at risk

The Federal Aviation Administration has ordered inspections on some Boeing 737 Max models after cracks were found in the structural components of previous generation Boeing aircraft. According to reports CBS News, the directive affects 471 aircraft in the United States and 1,429 globally.

The US regulator issued the order for the 737 Max 8, 737 Max 9 and 737-8200 models following reports of cracks identified in the structural reinforcement band around the front service door, near the galley area on the right side of some older Boeing 737s. According to the FAA, no cracks have currently been detected on the 737 Max jets affected by the directive. The ordinance establishes a timeline for mandatory inspections with the aim of identifying any cracks and carrying out necessary repairs before they pose a safety problem.

The cracks in the ‘bear strap’

The FAA said the cracks observed on older planes have developed into the so-called ‘bear strap’, an element that reinforces the areas around the doors and emergency exits and which can be subject to cracks due to the stresses accumulated during take-offs and landings.

Boeing’s previous inspections of aircraft

Boeing said it notified operators of Next Generation 737s of the issue as early as 2019, providing instructions for recommended inspections. The manufacturer added that it has extended the inspections to the 737 Max aircraft in 2024, in consideration of the design and construction similarities with the Next Generation family. The company also claimed to be committed to analyzing the causes of cracks to prevent their occurrence on future aircraft.

Southwest Airlines announced that it is examining the FAA directive and that it will carry out the required checks on the aircraft involved within the deadlines set by the authority. United Airlines has indicated that it does not expect impacts on operations in the short term and will schedule inspections during heavy maintenance interventions.