Boeing 737 MAX planes must now be inspected for cracks around the galley door
What happened
US aviation regulators propose new mandatory inspections for certain Boeing 737 MAX airplanes. Airlines will have to check for cracks in the fuselage skin, bear strap, and stub frame near the forward galley door.
Why it matters
This proposed rule means airlines operating specific Boeing 737 MAX models will have to add new, repetitive inspections to their maintenance schedules. It adds another layer of mandatory checks to a plane model that has faced intense scrutiny over its safety record. This is a direct response to reported structural issues, not a preventative measure.
The signal
Watch for the final rule to be published and how quickly airlines implement the new inspection requirements, especially if it leads to temporary grounding of planes for repairs.