FAA Proposes Broader Crack Inspections for Boeing 737 Fleet
Published Date: 4/23/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants to update safety checks for certain Boeing 737 airplanes because cracks were found beyond the usual inspection spots. This means more planes will need extra inspections to keep flying safe. Airlines should get ready to inspect a bigger area soon, with comments on the plan due by June 8, 2026.
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Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
AD Applies to More 737 Models
If you operate Boeing Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, or -900ER airplanes certificated in any category, this proposed AD would apply to your airplanes. The FAA explicitly adds Model 737-900ER and states that Model 737-600/700/700C/800/900/900ER airplanes having line numbers 1763 and subsequent are subject to the unsafe condition.
Estimated Compliance Costs to Operators
The FAA estimates this proposed AD would affect 1,965 U.S.-registered airplanes. Estimated per-airplane costs include up to $2,380 for the retained inspection action (up to 28 work-hours at $85/hour) and up to $2,125 for the new stub frame inspection (up to 25 work-hours at $85/hour). The FAA estimates aggregate U.S. operator costs up to $4,676,700 for the retained inspection and up to $4,175,625 for the stub frame inspection; on-condition actions are separately estimated (for example, HFEC/LFEC inspections up to $2,380, HFEC inspections up to $2,295 per cycle, and a stub frame replacement cost shown as $4,375 per product in the proposal).
Required Extended Inspections Added
The proposed AD would retain the prior inspection requirements and add inspections for an extended inspection area, including inspections of the forward galley door cutout stub frame. The AD requires following Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737-53A1383 RB, Revision 3, dated July 30, 2025, which specifies internal and external general visual inspections, repetitive HFEC and LFEC inspections for cracks, and applicable replacement or repair actions.
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Key Dates
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