Boeing 737 MAX Software Glitch Under Review by FAA Amid Safety Concerns

A software issue affecting automated vertical guidance has been identified in Boeing's 737 MAX family. The problem arises during a specific sequence following an aborted landing, known as a go-around. If pilots change the flight path programmed into the aircraft's flight-management computer, its automated vertical navigation function (VNAV) may disengage. However, Boeing says existing pilot procedures can manage the situation.

Air India Express and Akasa Air operate about 100 737 MAX aircraft between them in India, but it remains unclear how many have the affected software. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is reviewing the issue and has said it will act if the review identifies a safety concern. A Corrective Action Review Board will convene to assess the situation.

Boeing has alerted 737 operators to the issue, advising them on existing procedures for handling the situation. The company is working on a permanent software fix. The affected software is associated with the newer MAX 7 and MAX 10 variants, but it remains unclear how many aircraft operating worldwide use it.