Boeing 737s must now be regularly inspected for cracks in their frames

The US aviation regulator now requires regular inspections for cracks in the frames of all Boeing 737-600, -700, -800, and -900 series airplanes. This means airlines must check for specific cracks and repair them to keep these planes flying.

Airlines operating these Boeing 737 models now have a mandatory, recurring maintenance task. This adds to their operational costs and maintenance schedules. The regulator is responding to a specific crack found in a fuselage frame, which suggests a known structural weakness needs constant monitoring.