FAA Scrutinizes Software Issue Affecting Boeing 737 MAX Aircraft

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is taking a closer look at a software issue affecting some Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. The agency may convene a Corrective Action Review Board as soon as Friday to examine the problem and determine if additional regulatory action is required.

The review comes after Boeing became aware of the issue in November 2024, when an operator reported that the vertical navigation mode could disengage during a go-around under specific circumstances. The manufacturer initially concluded it didn't require a formal safety assessment but changed its mind in August 2026 and began a formal review.

The software problem doesn't currently prevent Boeing from delivering other MAX aircraft, but some U.S. airlines have refused to accept planes equipped with the affected software version. Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines have said their MAX aircraft currently in service don't use the affected software, while WestJet has aircraft equipped with it but hasn't experienced related events.

The FAA's review could affect not only the certification of the 737 MAX 10 but also the introduction of the smaller 737 MAX 7. The MAX 10 had been approaching FAA certification after years of delays and had reached the final stages of its campaign, with Boeing and customers expecting approval around the end of September or during October.