SEATTLE— Boeing has identified a previously undisclosed software problem affecting some 737 MAX aircraft that could interrupt an automated flight-guidance function during a specific landing scenario.
The issue can emerge after a missed approach when pilots modify the aircraft’s planned route before attempting to land again.
The discovery has prompted a review by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), while Boeing works on a permanent software fix.
United Airlines (UA) and Southwest Airlines (WN) have reportedly asked Boeing to provide new 737 MAX aircraft with an earlier software version instead of the affected update, although the number of aircraft currently using the software remains unclear.
Boeing 737 MAX Software Issue
The problem is connected to a cockpit software update and involves the aircraft’s automated navigation functions. In the reported scenario, a crew conducts a missed approach, changes the programmed flight path, and then attempts another landing.
Under certain conditions, the flight management computer can cause the vertical navigation function, known as VNAV, to disengage.
This can leave pilots without the affected automated guidance during a critical phase of the subsequent approach and increase the need for manual control.
Boeing said it informed 737 operators about the issue in August. The company said existing pilot procedures provide a way to handle the situation safely while its engineers develop a permanent software solution.
FAA Reviews Risk
The FAA has confirmed that it is aware of the potential problem involving software installed on flight computers in certain 737 MAX aircraft.
The regulator said it is working with Boeing and airlines and will convene a Corrective Action Review Board to determine whether additional action is necessary.
Boeing has said the issue does not currently represent a safety risk.
The company is nevertheless developing an update to permanently address the software behavior, while regulators and operators assess how widely the affected version is being used.
The issue could also become relevant to Boeing’s ongoing 737 MAX development program.
Aviation Week reported that the software problem comes as Boeing prepares for further MAX milestones, including certification of the 737-10, although the eventual effect on those activities remains uncertain.
Airlines Seek Earlier Software
Southwest and United have reportedly requested that Boeing hold back deliveries of new 737 MAX jets equipped with the affected software.
The airlines instead sought aircraft carrying an earlier software version while the manufacturer works toward a permanent solution.
The latest issue comes amid continued regulatory attention on the 737 MAX program.
The type was globally grounded following the Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines crashes in 2018 and 2019, which together killed 346 people, while the January 2024 Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 door-plug blowout led to renewed scrutiny of Boeing’s aircraft production and safety processes.
The current software problem does not by itself mean that affected 737 MAX aircraft are unsafe to operate.
Boeing says pilots have established procedures for handling the scenario, while the FAA is assessing the issue and will determine whether further corrective action is required.
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