FAA Delays Certification of Boeing 737 MAX 10 Over Software Issue
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has delayed certification of Boeing's 737 MAX 10 due to a newly-discovered software issue. The problem could prevent pilots from accessing automated flight guidance during specific landing scenarios.
Boeing shares plummeted 6.9% after the news, as investors worry about further delays to the MAX 10. The aircraft is a key part of Boeing's efforts to regain ground lost to Airbus in the single-aisle market.
The FAA will investigate whether the software poses an unreasonable risk to safety, which could lead to more months of rework before certification.
WestJet, a Canadian carrier, said it had not experienced any issues with the software and did not view it as a safety concern. However, the delay is still a significant setback for Boeing's plans to bring the MAX 10 to market.