FAA orders inspections of 471 Boeing 737 Max jets for possible cracks

Boeing says cracks not observed on Max fleet despite similar design

The Federal Aviation Administration on Thursday published an airworthiness directive ordering inspections of certain Boeing 737-8, 737-9 and 737-8200 model airplanes for possible cracks in a structural component. The FAA estimates the mandatory inspections will affect 471 jets in the U.S., and the directive takes effect Sept. 10.

The agency said cracks were found on some older plane models in a structural reinforcement, known as the bear strap, around the forward gallery door. Inspections of the fuselage skin will be required, the FAA said.

“The FAA is issuing this AD [airworthiness directive] to address the unsafe condition on these products,” the agency said, adding that the cracks could “adversely affect the structural integrity of the airplane.”

Boeing said the inspections provide opportunities to detect and correct possible cracks before they exceed a critical length.

A Boeing spokesperson said the company has been working with aircraft operators over the past six years after identifying the issue on 737 New Generation airplanes.

“This issue has not been observed on the 737 MAX fleet, but Boeing extended the inspections to 737 MAX airplanes as the model shares a similar design and build process,” the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson said the directive mandates the inspections, as it did for the 737 Next Generation.

Boeing is introducing changes to the manufacturing process that address the root cause of the unsafe condition on in-production airplanes, the FAA said.

Boeing shares fell 3.33%.