The U.S. aviation authority has mandated inspections for Boeing 737 Max aircraft to check for potential cracks in a key structural part of the fuselage. This directive will impact around 471 planes, with inspections slated to commence in September. The focus is on the bear strap component, which comprises structural sheets that bolster the fuselage near the exit doors. Similar cracks had been previously identified in older Boeing 737 Next Generation models, leading to inspections of those aircraft.
While no cracks have yet been found in the 737 Max models, regulators are concerned due to the aircraft’s similar design and manufacturing process, which might lead to the same problem. The aviation authority highlighted that unnoticed cracks could compromise a crucial structural component, potentially affecting the plane’s overall structural integrity.
Boeing has been addressing this issue in collaboration with airlines since its identification in 2019 and is in favor of the mandatory inspections. The company has stated that these checks aim to detect and address any issues before they escalate to critical levels. This development comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the 737 Max following past safety incidents and questions regarding the quality of its manufacturing and engineering.
The 737 Max model had previously faced a global grounding after two tragic crashes in 2018 and 2019, which heightened concerns about its safety. These new inspections add another layer to the ongoing oversight of the aircraft type, as stakeholders continue to ensure its safety and reliability.