Boeing finds debris in fuel tanks of undelivered 737 Max jets, orders inspection

Boeing Co. is inspecting more than 400 stored 737 Max jets after discovering debris such as tools or rags in the fuel tanks of several newly built but undelivered aircraft, said a person familiar with the matter.

The checks aren’t likely to delay Boeing’s earlier estimate that the Max will be cleared to fly by midyear, said the person, who asked not to be identified as the matter is confidential. The company has been working to re-certify the 737 Max, which was grounded worldwide in March after two fatal accidents killed 346 people.

The debris problem is a new embarrassment for a company trying to reassure airlines, crew members and passengers of its commitment to manufacturing quality and safety. Boeing has struggled with similar quality lapses in other aircraft, including KC-46 aerial refuelers supplied to the US Air Force.