Boeing has identified a previously undisclosed software glitch affecting the 737 MAX that could cause pilots to lose access to automated flight guidance during a specific landing situation. The company has informed all 737 operators about the issue and is working on a permanent software fix.
What Is the Boeing 737 MAX Software Problem?
The problem is linked to a cockpit software update and affects an automated navigation feature used during landing.
The issue can occur when a flight crew changes its planned flight path after a missed approach. In that situation, pilots may no longer have access to automated flight guidance.
The aircraft’s autopilot is then forced into a simpler level of automation known as pitch control. Boeing said this mode increases pilot workload compared with the standard mode.
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Boeing Alerts Airlines About Software Issue
Boeing said it informed all 737 operators last month about the software issue and reinforced existing pilot procedures for safely dealing with such situations.
The company said its engineers are working on a software update that would permanently address the problem.
It was not immediately clear how many aircraft are currently operating with the affected software.
FAA Reviews the Software Issue
The US Federal Aviation Administration said it was aware of a potential issue involving a software update for flight computers installed on certain Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.
The regulator said it was working closely with Boeing and airlines while the issue is assessed.
The FAA said it would convene a Corrective Action Review Board and take immediate action if it identifies a safety concern.
Are Airlines Taking Action?
Southwest Airlines and United Airlines have asked Boeing not to deliver new 737 MAX aircraft equipped with the affected software.
Instead, the airlines requested aircraft fitted with an earlier version of the software.
Boeing, airlines and regulators are assessing the issue and examining whether it presents a wider flight-safety concern.
Why Is the 737 MAX Already Under Scrutiny?
The latest issue comes as Boeing’s 737 MAX programme remains under close regulatory and safety scrutiny.
Two fatal 737 MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019 resulted in 346 deaths and led to the aircraft being grounded worldwide.
Boeing faced further scrutiny following a January 2024 incident in which a cabin door panel blew out during a flight involving a nearly new Alaska Airlines MAX 9.
Does the Glitch Mean the Aircraft Is Unsafe?
The discovery of the software problem does not by itself mean that 737 MAX aircraft are unsafe to fly.
Boeing has reinforced existing procedures for pilots who encounter the specific situation, while engineers work on a permanent software update.
The FAA, Boeing and airlines are continuing to assess the problem and determine whether further action is necessary.
The issue highlights how a software fault can affect a critical cockpit function even when an aircraft remains controllable. Boeing has given operators procedures to handle the situation and is developing a permanent fix, while the FAA is assessing whether the glitch creates a broader safety concern.
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