Boeing's 737 Max Software Glitch Triggers FAA Investigation

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating a software glitch in some Boeing 737 Max jets that could cause issues during aborted landings. The issue occurs when a pilot makes changes to their pre-programmed flight plan while using precision approach with autopilot engaged, causing the vertical navigation system (VNAV) to disengage and transition to a less sophisticated level of automated pitch control.

The VNAV is designed to automatically maintain the pre-planned altitude at various waypoints along a flight path. If this glitch occurs, pilots will need to take additional steps during their subsequent approach, which could be distracting in low-altitude airports adjacent environments where pilots already have a high workload.

Boeing acknowledged the issue and informed all 737 operators about a software problem that may not provide access to automated flight guidance during a specific landing scenario. The company is working on a software update to permanently address the issue, which it expects to be ready sometime in 2028.

The FAA will convene a Corrective Action Review Board (CARB) and take immediate action if it identifies a safety concern. Several US airlines, including Southwest Airlines and United Airlines, have informed Boeing they will not accept delivery of new aircraft with the problematic operating system version.