FAA Clears Boeing 737-10 Despite Flight Software Issue

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has cleared Boeing's 737-10 for certification, despite a software issue that can affect automated flight guidance during missed approaches.

The decision, reached on October 2 by an FAA panel of internal safety experts, removes a potential obstacle to the certification and entry into service of the 737-10. The agency determined that pilots remain in full control of the aircraft and receive clear indications when the problem occurs.

The issue can occur when pilots modify a programmed flight path while carrying out a missed approach. In certain circumstances, the aircraft's flight guidance system can automatically switch from VNAV to a less sophisticated form of pitch-control automation.

Although the system remains controllable, the unexpected change could increase workload for pilots during a phase of flight that can already involve heightened demands.