Boeing 737 MAX software glitch prompts
Boeing identified a software glitch affecting automated approach systems on some 737 MAX jets two years ago but only notified airlines last month, leading
Boeing found a software issue affecting automated vertical navigation during missed approaches on certain 737 MAX jets. The company identified the glitch in November 2024 but revealed it to airlines only last month, prompting delivery holds and regulatory review.
The problem is specific to software version U.14 on 737 MAX 8 and MAX 9 aircraft. It affects the automated approach functions during a missed approach, which occurs when a landing is aborted. Under certain conditions, the software may lose the programmed flight path, potentially disabling automated flight guidance and vertical navigation. This could leave pilots without that automation, though manual flight controls remain fully operational.
Airlines respond with delivery holds
Southwest Airlines and United Airlines requested Boeing to hold back deliveries of new 737 MAX aircraft with the affected U.14 software. United is not expecting to take delivery of any new MAX aircraft with this software version. The glitch was identified nearly two years before airline notification but was not deemed a safety issue when first found by Boeing.
Boeing and regulators assess risk and response
Boeing states the glitch does not pose an immediate risk as pilots are trained to land safely without the automated vertical navigation system. Existing pilot procedures can handle the issue while engineers work on a permanent software fix. The company is working directly with potentially affected airlines to formalize procedures for re-enabling automated vertical navigation.
The Federal Aviation Administration is aware of the problem and has established a Corrective Action Review Board to evaluate it. The FAA will take immediate action if a safety concern is identified. Regulators and Boeing are examining the problem to determine if further action is required.
Broader context and uncertainty remains
The issue raises questions about certification timelines for upcoming MAX variants. The MAX 7 was certified in August with the newest software installed, while the MAX 10 is expected to obtain FAA certification in the coming weeks. The glitch may impact these models during certification and delivery.
The 737 MAX programme continues to face regulatory and safety scrutiny, having been grounded worldwide after two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019 that killed 346 people. Boeing faced renewed scrutiny in January 2024 after a door plug blew out of an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9. The number of affected aircraft currently operating is unclear.
Boeing is working directly with airlines to formalize procedures for re-enabling automated vertical navigation while developing a permanent software update.
