FAA Orders Boeing 737 Checks for Hidden Cracks and Corrosion
Published Date: 4/27/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants all Boeing 737-600 to 900ER planes checked for cracks and corrosion near the aft drain mast to keep flights safe. They’re asking for inspections and repairs if needed, with comments due by June 11, 2026. This means airlines will need to spend some time and money making sure their planes stay in top shape.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory Inspections to Prevent Decompression
The FAA proposes inspections and repairs for Boeing Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, and -900ER airplanes to find cracks or corrosion near the aft drain mast. The rule is meant to stop an unsafe condition that could cause rapid decompression and loss of structural integrity.
Inspection Costs for U.S. Operators
The FAA estimates this proposed AD would affect 1,987 U.S.-registered Boeing 737-600/700/700C/800/900/900ER airplanes. Estimated costs are $1,190 per airplane for the external general visual inspection (14 work-hours at $85/hour) and up to $1,360 per airplane per inspection cycle for detailed inspections and HFEC (16 work-hours at $85/hour); total estimated cost to U.S. operators is $2,364,530 for the visual inspections and $2,702,320 per inspection cycle.
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Key Dates
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