New Boeing 737 MAX Software Glitch Could Disable Autopilot Functions
A newly discovered software issue in the 737 MAX could lead to the loss of automated navigation features during a missed landing approach, prompting concerns from airlines.
Boeing is working to address a new software glitch affecting its 737 MAX aircraft, which can disable an automated navigation feature after a missed landing approach, The Wall Street Journal reported.
The issue arises from a recent update to the cockpit software and can occur when pilots alter their flight path after aborting a landing. In such scenarios, certain autopilot functions may become unavailable, potentially requiring pilots to fly manually at low altitudes, often in challenging conditions.
Boeing communicated to airlines in late August that it does not consider the glitch a safety risk. A company statement cited by the Journal indicated that engineers are developing a software update to permanently resolve the problem. The Federal Aviation Administration is reportedly investigating the glitch and may take action if it is deemed a safety concern.
Some of Boeing's major U.S. customers have expressed concern over the glitch. Southwest Airlines and United Airlines have informed Boeing that they do not wish to receive new MAX jets equipped with the affected software and have requested the prior version instead. Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest, and United have stated that their current MAX aircraft are not operating with the problematic software.
Boeing has indicated that airlines have the option to revert to an older software version. The company does not yet have precise figures on how many MAX aircraft are equipped with the newer software, as airlines are not obligated to report software upgrades.
According to aviation data firm Cirium, there are 2,422 MAX 8 and MAX 9 jets currently in operation worldwide. The newly identified glitch could represent another setback for Boeing as it aims to move past the safety issues that plagued the 737 MAX.
The aircraft was involved in two fatal crashes: Lion Air Flight 610 in October 2018 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 in March 2019, which together resulted in 346 fatalities. These incidents were linked to the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS), a flight-control system that could force the plane's nose down based on erroneous sensor data.
The crashes led to a global grounding of the MAX fleet. The FAA permitted the aircraft to resume service in the U.S. in November 2020, following mandated changes to software, procedures, and training.
Boeing's stock has seen a significant decline since the first MAX crash, falling approximately 39% from its closing price on October 29, 2018. The aircraft faced renewed scrutiny in January 2024 after a door plug detached from an Alaska Airlines 737-9 shortly after takeoff. Federal investigators determined that crucial bolts had not been installed on the plug. The National Transportation Safety Board cited inadequate training, guidance, and oversight by Boeing, along with ineffective FAA surveillance, as contributing factors. Following this incident, the FAA grounded 171 MAX 9 planes, increased inspections at Boeing and its supplier Spirit AeroSystems, and temporarily halted expansion of MAX production until Boeing improved its quality control measures.