FAA intensely monitors Boeing 737 MAX inspections

Friday, December 29, 2023

The FAA is actively overseeing targeted checks on Boeing 737 MAX aircraft to detect potential loose bolts within the rudder control system.

In coordination with the FAA, Boeing has issued a Multi-Operator Message (MOM), advising operators of newer single-aisle planes to examine specific tie rods responsible for controlling rudder movement to ensure there are no loose components.

Throughout the inspection process, the FAA will maintain communication with both Boeing and the airlines. They are requesting airlines to utilize their approved Safety Management Systems to determine if any loose hardware had been previously identified and to provide comprehensive information on the estimated completion time for these two-hour inspections.

Depending on any further findings of loose or missing hardware, the FAA will contemplate taking additional measures. Boeing recommended these inspections after an international operator found a bolt lacking a nut during routine maintenance on a mechanism in the rudder-control linkage. Subsequently, the company identified another undelivered aircraft with a nut that was improperly tightened.

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