FAA Clears Boeing 737 MAX 10 for Approval Amid Software Glitch Concerns

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has cleared the way for approval of the Boeing 737 MAX 10, after determining that a software glitch poses no safety concern. The decision removes a late obstacle to certification, which could have delayed the plane's entry into service until later this year.

The FAA said on Friday that a panel of experts had reviewed the issue and determined that pilots retain full control of the aircraft even when the automated flight guidance system is not available. This means that airlines will not need to delay their plans for introducing the MAX 10, which has been delayed for years due to various issues.

Boeing has nearly 1,500 MAX 10s on order from airlines, and the certification of this plane is seen as a crucial step towards restoring confidence in the 737 MAX family. The FAA will now issue a bulletin to airlines on how to recognize and respond to the situation if it occurs during flight.

Major US airlines had opted not to use the software version that was causing the issue while the analysis was underway, but they can now resume their plans for introducing the MAX 10. This decision is expected to ease concerns at Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and United Airlines, which have all ordered the MAX 10.