FAA Clears Boeing 737 MAX Software Glitch for Approval
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has cleared the Boeing 737 MAX software glitch, stating it poses no safety concern. This decision paves the way for approval of the larger version of the best-selling narrow-body jet, the MAX 10.
The FAA's determination was based on the fact that pilots retain full control of the aircraft and flight crew indications are clear and unambiguous. The issue could have affected Southwest Airlines, as well as other large airlines such as Alaska Airlines and United Airlines, due to the same software being used on their newly certified MAX 7 airplanes.
Boeing will continue to follow the FAA's lead as its engineers work on the next software update. The company is also working with airlines to formalize a procedure that allows pilots to re-enable automated vertical navigation in case of an unusual landing scenario.