US warns hundreds of Boeing jets may require seat safety inspections

The Federal Aviation Administration announced Monday that it has identified a potential safety issue affecting seats on hundreds of Boeing 737 MAX jets operating in the United States. The regulator has proposed requiring airlines to conduct inspections on 453 US-registered aircraft to verify that seats have been installed correctly.

According to the FAA, improperly installed seats present a significant hazard during emergency situations. If seats are not secured correctly, they could detach during an emergency landing, potentially injuring passengers and crew members. Additionally, loose seats could obstruct aisles and impede passenger evacuation procedures.

The proposed inspection mandate applies specifically to US-registered aircraft, as the FAA's regulatory authority extends only to domestic operations. However, aviation regulators in other countries typically align their requirements with FAA directives when safety issues affect aircraft in their jurisdictions.

Boeing acknowledged the issue in a statement to Reuters, noting that the company had distributed operational guidance to aircraft operators in December 2025. The manufacturer indicated its support for the FAA's decision to make this guidance mandatory across the industry.

This safety warning represents the latest chapter in an extended period of heightened scrutiny regarding Boeing's safety practices. The company has faced significant regulatory and public attention following several high-profile incidents, including a January 2024 incident involving an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 where a cabin panel detached mid-flight. Investigations revealed the panel was missing critical fasteners. The National Transportation Safety Board concluded in June 2025 that Boeing had failed to provide adequate training and oversight to prevent such occurrences. Approximately 2,300 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft are currently in operation worldwide, with 823 registered in the United States.