Seattle, Sept. 28 – Boeing has identified a previously undisclosed 737 MAX software glitch that could cause an automated landing navigation feature to fail, the Wall Street Journal reported, as cited by Reuters. The problem originated in a cockpit software update and may arise when flight crews alter their planned flight path after a missed approach. Boeing informed all 737 operators last month that pilots might lose access to automated flight guidance during that specific landing scenario on certain 737 MAX aircraft.
The manufacturer stated it shared information reinforcing existing pilot procedures for safely handling such cases while engineers develop a permanent software update. The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed awareness of the potential issue in flight computers on some Boeing 737 MAX airplanes and said it is working closely with Boeing and airlines. The FAA will convene a Corrective Action Review Board and take immediate action if a safety concern is identified.
Southwest Airlines and United Airlines have asked Boeing not to deliver new 737 MAX jets equipped with the affected software and instead requested an earlier version. It remains unclear how many aircraft currently operate with the flawed software as Boeing, airlines and regulators assess whether the glitch poses a flight-safety concern. The disclosure adds to ongoing scrutiny of 737 MAX aircraft following earlier incidents.
Regulators and operators continue evaluating the 737 MAX software issue to ensure continued airworthiness. Boeing emphasized that current procedures allow crews to manage the scenario safely pending the forthcoming software correction. The FAA review process will determine any required fleet actions regarding the landing navigation feature on the 737 MAX.