FAA Investigates Software Glitch in Boeing 737 Max Jets

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently examining a software problem in certain Boeing 737 Max jets. This issue could potentially disengage the automated flight guidance system during an aborted landing, known as a go-around.

In specific situations where there is a missed approach, involving a precision approach with autopilot engaged and changes to the pre-programmed flight plan, the flight management computer may cause the plane’s vertical navigation system (VNAV) to disengage. This would result in the aircraft transitioning to a less advanced level of automated pitch control.

VNAV is responsible for automatically maintaining the pre-determined altitude at various waypoints along a flight path. If the glitch occurs, pilots must take additional measures during their subsequent approach. This scenario typically unfolds in low-altitude airport settings where pilots face high workloads.

“How busy do you want your crew to be?” an airline source stated, highlighting the potential distraction at critical moments.

Last month, Boeing informed all 737 operators about this software issue. Pilots might not have access to automated flight guidance during specific landing scenarios. Boeing shared information with operators reiterating current pilot procedures for handling such cases safely. Engineers are actively developing a software update to resolve the issue permanently.

Boeing assures that even if VNAV disengages, the autopilot will continue to function. Pilots receive training to land safely without VNAV. In a recent bulletin, Boeing reiterated that the glitch is not an immediate safety concern. It has been observed in versions 14 and 14.1 of the operating system in the Max’s flight management computer.

The FAA is aware of the potential issue in the software update for flight computers in certain Boeing 737 Max airplanes. It is collaborating closely with Boeing and airlines on the matter. The FAA plans to convene a Corrective Action Review Board (CARB) and will act swiftly if a safety issue is detected.

Southwest Airlines and United Airlines have informed Boeing they will not accept delivery of new aircraft with the affected software, opting instead for a previous version. Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest, and United confirmed that none of their in-service 737 Max fleets use the software version in question.

Boeing was first notified of the issue by an airline in November 2024. After reviewing it, the manufacturer deemed it not a safety issue in February 2025. However, further information from operators earlier this year prompted Boeing to initiate a formal safety review board. The board’s findings have been shared with the FAA and are under CARB’s review.

Boeing initially informed airlines that a software fix would be available by 2028. Updated guidance about pilot procedures is slated for November. Efforts are underway to expedite both initiatives.

The ongoing FAA review might delay certification of the 737 Max 10, the fourth and largest variant of the Max, which was nearing FAA certification but is behind schedule. The review could also delay deliveries of the newly certified 737 Max 7, primarily ordered by Southwest Airlines.

The Max series, crucial for Boeing’s financial recovery, has faced challenges before. High-profile crashes in 2018 and 2019, leading to 346 fatalities due to defective software, and an Alaska Airlines flight incident in January 2024, attributed to manufacturing mistakes, underscore the importance of addressing the current glitch.

Several U.S. airlines are adopting a cautious approach to Boeing’s assurances, mindful of previous groundings and delays caused by Boeing’s errors in the Max models. While the Max 7 was certified with software version 14, the Max 10 utilized version 14.1 during certification tests. Southwest planned to begin receiving Max 7 deliveries this fall, although it remains uncertain if deliveries will proceed. Alaska Airlines is set to be the launch customer for the Max 10.

This issue was initially reported by the Wall Street Journal. CBS News has also sought comments from Allegiant Air, an operator of the 737 Max.