The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has mandated inspections for Boeing 737 Max aircraft to check for possible structural cracks. This directive targets a specific section of the fuselage, known as the bear strap, which reinforces the area around the exit doors. Around 471 aircraft are expected to be inspected, with the process set to commence in September.
The inspection focus is due to similarities identified with older Boeing 737 Next Generation models, where similar cracks had previously been discovered. Although the 737 Max fleet hasn’t reported any cracks yet, the design and manufacturing process mirrors that of its predecessors, raising the possibility of the same issue occurring.
Regulators have emphasized the significance of these checks, warning that undetected cracks could compromise a critical structural component of the aircraft, potentially affecting its overall integrity. Boeing has acknowledged this concern, having been in collaboration with airlines since the issue was identified in 2019. The company supports the mandatory inspections as a precautionary measure to detect and address any problems before they escalate.
This latest development adds to the ongoing scrutiny Boeing’s 737 Max has faced, following a series of safety incidents in recent years. The aircraft was previously grounded globally after two tragic crashes in 2018 and 2019, which heightened attention on Boeing’s manufacturing and engineering practices.