Qantas latest to find cracks in Boeing jets

Qantas is the latest airline to ground some Boeing jets after finding cracks in a key component.

The Australian airline says three of its 737 planes are affected.

They will be out of service until the end of the year.

The problems concern 737 Next Generation models - an earlier version than the 737 MAX jets that have been been grounded worldwide after two fatal crashes.

Andrew David is chief executive of Qantas's domestic operations.

He said there was no danger to the traveling public:

(SOUNDBITE) (English) CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF QANTAS DOMESTIC, ANDREW DAVID, SAYING:

"Minimal risk, we are being very prudent, we have done the checks in seven days, those three aircraft are on the ground, we will get them back flying by the end of the year. Two entirely separate issues that are being dealt with but we have every confidence in Boeing and I'm sure they will work to address the MAX issues over due time."

Cracks have also been found on 737s at carriers including Southwest, Korean Air Lines and Brazil's Gol.

In all Boeing says about a thousand planes will need checking, and so far fewer than five percent had issues.

But it's still the last thing the aerospace giant needs.

Its reputation has taken a hit following the problems with the MAX.

Earlier this week chief executive Dennis Muilenberg was grilled by U.S. lawmakers. .

Senators accused the company of pushing profits over quality and safety.