The Federal Aviation Administration (
The software issue, which occurs within the cockpit flight computers, can cause an automated navigation feature to malfunction during the transition to a landing approach. Despite this finding, the FAA stated that the aircraft remains manageable for flight crews, noting that pilots maintain full control and that the system provides clear, unambiguous indicators if the failure occurs.
FAA Review Findings and Boeing Response
A panel of safety experts conducted a comprehensive review of the software before issuing their determination. The agency emphasized that its conclusion is based on the ability of pilots to intervene effectively should the automated guidance fail. While the FAA has cleared the specific software concern, it noted that it would remain open to taking further action should new information regarding the issue emerge in the future.
In response to the findings, Boeing confirmed it is working to formalize procedures for airlines to ensure pilots can restore automated flight guidance if the glitch is encountered. The aerospace manufacturer stated it will issue a bulletin to all operators of the 737 MAX series, providing detailed instructions on how to recognize and manage the situation. Boeing engineers are currently developing a subsequent software update to address the underlying issue, with the company stating it will continue to follow the FAA's guidance throughout the process.
Certification Status of the 737 MAX 10
The 737 MAX 10 is the final variant of the four-model 737 MAX family awaiting regulatory certification for entry into commercial service. While the FAA has now ruled that the software bug is not a safety concern, neither the regulator nor the manufacturer has provided a timeline for when the certification process might resume or be finalized.
Earlier this week, FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford indicated that while the agency maintains confidence in the safety of the 737 MAX planes currently in operation, the certification of the MAX 10 would remain on hold until the regulator is fully satisfied that all technical issues have been addressed. Boeing has previously informed all 737 operators regarding the potential for a loss of automated flight guidance during specific landing scenarios, and the company remains in coordination with the FAA to resolve the matter.
