US aviation authorities have opened an investigation into Boeing after the company informed them it may not have completed required inspections on 787 Dreamliner passenger jets.

The Federal Aviation Administration announced on Monday it is investigating whether Boeing completed the checks to confirm adequate bonding and grounding where the wings join the fuselage on certain Dreamliners.

The FAA said it is also investigating whether Boeing employees may have falsified aircraft records.

The air-safety authorities launched the probe after the company voluntarily informed them of the alleged misconduct in April.

The FAA said Boeing is re-inspecting all 787s in production and the company "must also create a plan to address the in-service fleet."

The Wall Street Journal last month carried the account of a Boeing whistleblower. The person reportedly told aviation authorities that the company had taken manufacturing shortcuts to turn out 787s as quickly as possible, resulting in excessive stress being placed on important joints.

The US newspaper reported on Monday that it was not immediately clear whether any Dreamliners currently in service around the world would need to be grounded for inspections. But the paper said about 450 could be affected, citing people familiar with the investigation.

FAA said in its statement to NHK, "As the investigation continues, the FAA will take any necessary action -- as always -- to ensure the safety of the flying public."