FAA Investigates Boeing 737 Max Software Glitch Impacting Flight Guidance

FAA Investigates Software Glitch in Boeing 737 Max

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is examining a software glitch in Boeing 737 Max jets that could lead to the disengagement of an automated flight guidance system during aborted landings, known as go-arounds. This issue emerges in rare cases where pilots use precision approaches with autopilot and adjust pre-programmed flight plans. It involves the plane’s vertical navigation system (VNAV) disconnecting and transitioning to a less complex automated pitch control.

Impact on Pilots

Pilots encountering this glitch will need additional steps during subsequent approaches, typically in low-altitude, high-workload airport environments. An airline source emphasized the disruption this poses to crews during critical moments.

Boeing has alerted all 737 operators about the software problem and provided reinforced existing pilot procedures for handling such situations. Despite VNAV disengagement, autopilot remains operational, and pilots are trained to land safely without VNAV.

Software Version and FAA Review

The glitch appears in versions 14 and 14.1 of the Max’s flight management computer operating system. Boeing first learned of the issue in November 2024, deciding by February 2025 it wasn’t a safety concern. However, new information prompted a formal safety review, shared with the FAA for further examination.

The FAA plans to convene a Corrective Action Review Board (CARB) to explore potential safety concerns on affected aircraft.

Airline Responses and Delivery Delays

Southwest and United Airlines have decided not to accept new aircraft delivered with the problematic operating system. Their in-service fleets do not use it. Meanwhile, the glitch may further delay certification of the 737 Max 10 variant, as well as deliveries of the 737 Max 7, both crucial to Boeing’s business strategy.

While the 737 Max helped Boeing’s financial turnaround, it follows a series of mishaps, including two deadly crashes in 2018 and 2019 from faulty software and a door panel blowout in January 2024.

Further Actions and Industry Trust

Boeing’s initial bulletin promised a software fix by 2028, with pilot procedure updates in November. The company aims to expedite these efforts amid the FAA’s impending review. Several airlines exhibit a cautious approach due to past groundings and delays linked to the Max’s issues.

The Wall Street Journal first reported on this software glitch.