Boeing's 737 MAX Software Issue Sparks Caution from Major Airlines
Boeing's latest software issue has prompted two major airlines to abandon its use in new aircraft deliveries. Southwest Airlines and United Airlines have requested that Boeing deliver their new 737 MAX planes with an earlier software version after discovering a malfunction related to automated navigation functions.
The flaw, which could leave pilots without some autopilot capabilities during critical phases of flight, was first reported by a MAX operator in November 2024. Boeing initially downplayed the issue but later conducted a safety review and submitted its findings to the FAA.
According to aviation analytics company Cirium, over 2,400 MAX aircraft are currently in service worldwide, with Southwest and United operating from this family. While neither airline has reported any issues related to the affected software version, they have opted for caution by requesting an older version be installed on new deliveries.