Boeing Works on Software Fix for 737 Flight Guidance Issue

Boeing is working on a software update to address an issue that could leave pilots without access to automated vertical flight guidance during a specific landing scenario on its 737 aircraft. The company's spokesperson said that Boeing engineers are developing a permanent fix for the issue, which can arise after a missed approach when a pilot changes the preprogrammed flight path.

According to Boeing, in such situations, the flight management computer software may cause the aircraft to transition from a vertical navigation mode to a simpler level of automation for pitch control. This would require pilots to perform additional procedural steps if they want to use automated vertical navigation on subsequent approaches.

The company has informed all 737 operators about the issue and provided information reinforcing existing pilot procedures for safely handling such situations. Boeing is also working directly with airlines to formalise a procedure that would allow pilots to reenable automated vertical navigation if the situation occurs.