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Boeing 737 MAX Glitch Raises Risk of Potential Catastrophe
On Saturday, the Federal Aviation Administration issued an airworthiness directive requiring Boeing 737 Max operators to conduct inspections for potential fuselage cracks, citing structural design susceptibility.
Amid intense regulatory scrutiny in recent years, Boeing faced safety challenges including two fatal 737 MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019 and a mid-air cabin panel blowout on a nearly new Alaska Airlines MAX 9.
The directive impacts approximately 471 planes currently in service, targeting a component known as the bear strap that supports the fuselage around exit doors. Inspections follow protocols established for earlier Boeing 737 Next Generation models.
Boeing representatives stated the company is collaborating with airlines and regulators on the matter, noting that the inspection regimen provides multiple opportunities to identify and address problems before cracks reach critical dimensions.
Separately, Boeing identified a previously undisclosed 737 MAX software glitch that could affect automated navigation during landing, adding to mounting safety concerns. The Federal Aviation Administration is working closely with the manufacturer on the issue.