Washington, DC, Sept. 29 – The US Federal Aviation Administration delayed Boeing 737 MAX 10 certification after Boeing disclosed a software issue that could prevent pilots from accessing automated flight guidance during a specific landing scenario. This FAA delay of Boeing 737 MAX 10 certification represents another setback for the long-delayed largest member of the best-selling family, a key aircraft in Boeing’s campaign to recapture single-aisle market share from Airbus. Boeing shares dive 7 percent as investors weigh the impact of further certification delays on deliveries and cash flow. The company has informed operators and is preparing a software update to address the glitch permanently.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford stated the agency will withhold certification until it is satisfied the problem is resolved and declined to estimate the duration of the delay. The software was supplied by GE Aerospace, and Bedford indicated a correction could be developed relatively quickly given the intense regulatory focus. Unlike earlier 737 MAX flight-control software that contributed to two fatal accidents, pilots retained full control in this instance. The FAA plans to convene a Corrective Action Review Board to examine the matter thoroughly. Boeing said it continues to follow FAA guidance throughout the remaining certification process.
WestJet, which operates 737 MAX aircraft equipped with the software under review, reported it has not experienced any in-service events and does not regard the issue as a safety concern. The Canadian carrier noted it maintains standard operating procedures and training that mitigate such events. Alaska Airlines and United Airlines stated none of their current aircraft use the affected software version. United added it is not accepting deliveries of jets fitted with the version under scrutiny while evaluations continue.
The Boeing 737 MAX 10 delay underscores persistent software and certification hurdles facing the manufacturer as it seeks to restore production stability and customer confidence. Resolution of the GE Aerospace software issue remains essential before the FAA can complete Boeing 737 MAX 10 certification and allow the jet to enter commercial service. Market participants will monitor both the speed of the software fix and any additional regulatory findings that could influence the certification timeline and Boeing share performance.

