The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is examining a software fault in some Boeing 737 Max jets that might cause the automated flight guidance system to disengage during an aborted landing, known as a go-around. This issue could arise in seldom circumstances where a precision approach with autopilot is active, and a pilot alters the pre-programmed flight plan.
The problem affects the flight management computer, potentially causing the vertical navigation system (VNAV) to disengage and switch to a simpler form of automated pitch control. VNAV is designed to automatically keep a pre-planned altitude at various waypoints along a flight route.
If the glitch occurs, pilots need to undertake extra steps during their next approach, typically happening in a low-altitude airport setting where workloads are already high. An airline source raised concerns about the added distraction this could cause for the crew during these critical moments.
Boeing has informed all 737 operators about this software issue, emphasizing existing procedures to deal with such cases safely. The company is developing a software update to fix the problem. Even if VNAV disengages, autopilot remains functional, and pilots are trained to land safely without VNAV.
The glitch is found in versions 14 and 14.1 of the Max’s flight management computer operating system. FAA is actively working with Boeing and airlines. They plan to convene a Corrective Action Review Board (CARB) and will act immediately if a safety concern arises.
Southwest and United Airlines have notified Boeing they won’t accept aircraft deliveries with the problematic operating system. Companies like Alaska Airlines and American Airlines confirmed their current fleets don’t use the software version in question.
Boeing first became aware of the issue in November 2024 and deemed it not a safety issue by February 2025. However, received new information prompted a formal safety review, and findings are scheduled for a review by CARB.
Efforts to accelerate the software fix and issue guidance for pilots are underway. FAA review could further delay the certification of the 737 Max 10, crucial in Boeing’s turnaround, with previous incidents affecting trust among airlines.
The Max 10 certification and Max 7 deliveries could be impacted, adding potential delays in aircraft arrival for companies like Southwest and Alaska Airlines.
Past high-profile crashes involving defective software and other issues emphasized a cautious approach by airlines towards Boeing. Allegiant Air, another 737 Max operator, has been reached for comment.
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