Boeing 737 MAX Glitch Could Impact Aborted Landings, Report Says

A recently identified software glitch in Boeing's 737 MAX aircraft has the potential to cause significant issues during aborted landings, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal. The malfunction, which emerged during a cockpit software update, can lead to the disengagement of the automated flight guidance system when pilots initiate a go-around maneuver, a critical procedure for missed approaches.

During a missed approach, pilots may be using autopilot while executing a precision landing. The reported glitch could force pilots to fly manually without certain autopilot functions in a high-stress situation, potentially overwhelming them due to the low altitude and possible adverse weather conditions. Industry officials have raised concerns about the impact on pilot workload.

Boeing, which has been under intense scrutiny since two fatal 737 MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019 killed 346 people and led to a global grounding of the aircraft, notified operators of the malfunction in late August. The company has stated that the issue does not pose a safety risk. However, airlines including United Airlines and Southwest Airlines have requested that Boeing not deliver new 737 MAX jets equipped with the affected software, preferring earlier versions instead. It remains unclear how many aircraft are currently operating with the problematic software, and Boeing is working to determine an accurate count.

Approximately 2,422 Boeing 737 MAX 8 and 9 models are currently in operation worldwide, according to aviation data cited by The Wall Street Journal. Major operators such as Alaska, American, Southwest, and United Airlines have stated that their fleets are not affected by the glitching software.

A Boeing spokesperson confirmed to the Daily Mail that the company, along with regulators and airlines, is assessing the issue to determine any flight safety concerns. "Our engineers are working on a software update to permanently address the issue," the spokesperson said, adding that guidance on existing pilot procedures has been shared with operators.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is also investigating the matter and is prepared to take action if a safety concern is identified. "The FAA is aware of a potential issue in a software update for the flight computers on certain Boeing 737 MAX airplanes and is working closely with Boeing and the airlines," an FAA spokesperson stated. "The FAA will convene a Corrective Action Review Board (CARB) and will take immediate action if it identifies a safety concern."

The glitch was initially brought to Boeing's attention in November 2024. However, it did not initially meet the company's criteria for a safety review. After receiving feedback and similar concerns from airlines, Boeing launched a formal safety review. Boeing is expected to release further guidance in November, with a permanent software fix anticipated in early 2028. Industry and government officials suggest the issue could also affect the rollout of Boeing's newest 737 MAX 7 and 10 models, which are on order by airlines such as Delta, United, American, and Alaska.