Boeing Prompts Airlines to Check 737 Max Fleet for Potentially Faulty Tail Bolt
Aircraft manufacturer Boeing is spurring airlines to examine their 737 Max planes for a problematic loose tail bolt following discovery by an operator during maintenance.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) disclosed that Boeing recommended the urgent inspections after confirmation that a nut was missing from a bolt affixing part of the rudder control mechanism on a 737 Max.
While not an immediate safety hazard, the faulty bolt over time risks wear and tear compromising flight control if unchecked. Boeing states around 200 early model 737 Max jets globally need swift examination based on potentially flawed tail assembly processes at a supplier.
The FAA directed U.S. carriers to complete required bolt inspections within 10 days as Boeing simultaneously communicates the issue globally. Airlines worldwide operate over 800 active Boeing 737 Max aircraft, though only a subset require assessment.
Southwest Airlines, United Airlines and American Airlines are among major U.S. operators impacted by the bolt inspection order, though none have reported malfunctions. Boeing believes improper use of a thread-locking fluid allowing the nut to detach is the probable cause.
This newly detected issue marks the latest technical hiccup for Boeing’s top-selling narrow-body plane model after a prolonged worldwide grounding. Multiple deadly crashes between 2018-2019 stemming from a faulty flight control system tarnished the 737 Max’s reputation, resulting in sweeping modifications.
While not considered an imminent airworthiness concern, any potential defect marring the 737 Max’s return to service warrants urgent action. Boeing emphasized that the bolt examination stems from an “overabundance of caution.”
As airlines diligently check tails per protocol, proactive detection and swift response helps regain passenger trust in the aircraft’s safety as the revamped 737 Max completely restores operations globally after past scrutiny.
