\n The Federal Aviation Administration has ordered inspections of hundreds of Boeing 737 Max jets for cracks in the body of the plane, warning that undetected damage could reduce the aircraft\u2019s structural integrity.\n <\/p>\n
\n The new airworthiness directive<\/a> applies to an estimated 471 US-registered Boeing 737 Max 8s, Max 9s and Max 8-200 airplanes.\n <\/p>\n \n Cracks were found on some planes in a structural reinforcement around the forward service door on the right side of the airplane, next to the front galley, the FAA said.\n <\/p>\n \n Airlines must inspect the area on a schedule based on each airplane\u2019s usage and repair any cracking before returning an affected airplane to service.\n <\/p>\n \n Boeing has conducted an engineering analysis to determine the cause of the cracks and is working on engineering changes to prevent it in the future, the company said in a statement.\n <\/p>\n \n The FAA did not order the aircraft grounded, saying the required inspection intervals provide multiple chances to detect cracks before they could compromise the airplane\u2019s structural integrity.\n <\/p>\n \n The directive takes effect September 10.\n <\/p>\n \n This is not the first time the company has had to deal with structural cracking on 737s. In 2019, inspections were ordered<\/a> for some Boeing 737-700, 737-800, and 737-900 after some planes were found to have cracks in the component connecting the plane\u2019s fuselage to the wings.\n <\/p>\n \n \u201cThis 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,\u201d the company said in a statement. \u201cWe support both directives and continue to support our airline customers.\u201d\n <\/p>\n \n Last month, the FAA proposed another airworthiness directive that would require the inspection of seat assemblies<\/a> on 453 Boeing 737 Max jets in case they were incorrectly installed.\n <\/p>\n