The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered structural inspections of 471 U.S.-registered Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, targeting potential cracking near a forward service door and adding renewed regulatory pressure only weeks after allowing Boeing to resume issuing airworthiness certificates for new 737 MAX aircraft. FAA Targets Cracking RiskThe airworthiness directive, which takes effect on Sept. 10, requires airlines to carry out visual inspections of the fuselage skin around the forward service door, focusing on a structural reinforcement known as a bear strap. The manufacturer has been working with operators on the issue since 2019 and has completed an engineering analysis to determine the cause. It is now developing design changes intended to prevent cracking in future production. Regulations Tighten During ProductionIn July 2026, the FAA proposed inspections of seat assemblies on 453 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft after identifying installation concerns, and the type remains under scrutiny following the January 2024 Alaska Airlines door‑plug separation.