Alaska Airlines Chief Executive Ben Minicucci stated on Tuesday that his company remains largely unperturbed by the newest setback in the certification of Boeing’s 737 Max 10, which has already suffered years of delays. The FAA announced earlier this week that it would postpone its final approval after Boeing identified a software vulnerability.
According to Minicucci, the issue arises from a glitch triggered by a recent software update. During a go-around maneuver—where a pilot misses an approach and must circle back for another landing attempt—the aircraft’s vertical navigation system could temporarily strip away certain automated navigation data. The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed Monday that it is currently assessing the problem.
The delay comes as a blow to Boeing, whose CEO had recently expressed confidence that certification for the Max 10, the final model in the best-selling Max family, was imminent. Following the FAA’s announcement, Boeing shares dropped significantly.
Despite the regulatory hold, Alaska Airlines chose to showcase its future ambitions alongside the news, unveiling a major cabin overhaul for its fleet. The refresh includes premium seating options, such as lie-flat suites designed specifically for the 737 Max 10, which the airline expects to begin operating in late 2028.
Minicucci acknowledged to CNBC that if the certification delays persist for several months, the rollout of these new interiors might face postponement. However, he emphasized that Alaska continues to collaborate closely with both Boeing and federal regulators to resolve the outstanding issues. The carrier is one of several major U.S. airlines, along with United, Delta, and American, that are customers for the aircraft.
In contrast to the cautious outlook from some quarters, Michael O’Leary, the CEO of Ryanair, told reporters in Warsaw, Poland, that he anticipates the Max 10 certification will arrive within “a matter of days” rather than weeks or months. Ryanair is also a customer for the jet.
Alaska keeping calm is impressive, but waiting until late 2028 for new seats seems like forever if delays continue piling up.
Software glitches keeping planes on the ground again? Remind me why I trust these tech-heavy jets over old reliable turboprops.
How can O’Leary claim certification is days away while the FAA explicitly says it’s ongoing? The conflicting timelines are confusing.
Lie-flat suites on a narrow-body plane? Bold move. I hope the comfort matches the long delays passengers are enduring.