The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has mandated inspections for Boeing 737 Max aircraft to check for potential cracks in the fuselage’s structural components. This directive will impact about 471 planes, with inspections slated to commence in September. The focus is on a part known as the bear strap, made up of structural sheets that support the fuselage around exit doors. Similar issues were identified in older Boeing 737 Next Generation models, leading to inspections of those aircraft as well.
Although no cracks have been found in the 737 Max series to date, the FAA highlighted that the design and manufacturing process is akin to that of the older models, suggesting the possibility of similar problems arising. The regulator emphasized the importance of these inspections, noting that undetected cracks could compromise a vital structural component and potentially jeopardize the aircraft’s integrity.
Boeing has been addressing this issue in collaboration with airlines since it was first identified in 2019. The company supports the mandated inspections, which are aimed at detecting and resolving any issues before they reach a critical stage. These measures come amid continued scrutiny over the 737 Max, following past safety incidents and concerns regarding the aircraft’s manufacturing and engineering standards.
The 737 Max series had previously faced a global grounding after two deadly crashes in 2018 and 2019. The current inspections add to the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and reliability of the aircraft, reinforcing Boeing’s commitment to addressing potential risks proactively.