Boeing reported last month that a software glitch on certain 737 Max aircraft could interfere with specific landing protocols, a disclosure occurring as the manufacturer pursues federal certification for the Max 10, the final model in its most successful jet family.
The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed on Saturday that it is evaluating the defect and stated it would “take immediate action if it identifies a safety concern.” The agency also pledged to review the corrective measures proposed by Boeing.
According to the company, the malfunction may occur following a missed approach when pilots modify a preprogrammed flight path. In such instances, pilots are required to perform extra steps to utilize automated navigation tools on subsequent approaches. Boeing emphasized that it has already notified operators, reinforcing existing pilot procedures for managing these scenarios safely.
“Our engineers are working on a software update to permanently address the issue,” Boeing said. The company also noted that pilots are trained to execute landings without automated assistance and is collaborating with airlines to formalize a process for re-enabling automated vertical navigation if the situation arises.
The Wall Street Journal first reported on the problem. While U.S. carriers confirmed they do not currently have Max 8 or Max 9 planes equipped with the problematic software version in their fleets, questions persist regarding the Max 7 and Max 10. Southwest Airlines stated it is aware of the issue and is in contact with Boeing and the FAA, adding that none of its fleet, including newly delivered Max 8s, carries Version U.14. United Airlines similarly confirmed it is withholding deliveries of Max aircraft with the new software.
However, regulatory clarity remains elusive for other models. The FAA certified the Max 7 in early August with the newest software installed, and it is unclear whether the aircraft can be delivered or operated using an older software version. Meanwhile, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg told investors earlier this month that he anticipates FAA certification for the Max 10 “very soon.”
This development follows years of setbacks for Boeing’s Max program stemming from safety and manufacturing crises, including two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019 that killed 346 people. A flawed flight control software system, which has since been rectified, was linked to both accidents. According to Cirium, there are currently 2,430 Max aircraft in service globally.
Another glitch right before Max 10 certification? Stocks might not love this news one bit.
Does ‘extra steps’ mean pilots need manual backup procedures? Transparency on this would help ease public anxiety.
Good thing US carriers confirmed they don’t have Version U.14. The real worry is that FAA-certified Max 7.
Just when you think the Max drama is over. Will this delay my flight or just make the landing more stressful?
Given the history, I hope Boeing doesn’t rush a patch before the Max 10 gets certified. Safety first.