The US Federal Aviation Administration has ordered operators of Boeing 737 Max aircraft to inspect fuselage components for possible cracks. Although none have been found on Max planes so far, the directive matters because similar flaws were identified in older 737 models and could weaken an aircraft’s structural integrity if left unaddressed.

The inspections, due to begin in September, are expected to cover about 471 aircraft and focus on “bear straps” supporting the fuselage around exit doors. Boeing said it supports the checks and is developing engineering changes, amid continued scrutiny of the 737 Max following two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019 and a mid-air panel blowout in 2024.