Full Breakdown
Boeing 737 MAX Software Glitch Triggers FAA Review and Delivery Delays
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Boeing disclosed a fault in the flight-management-computer software of certain 737 MAX jets that can cause the vertical navigation (VNAV) function to disengage during a missed-approach or go-around. When VNAV drops, the aircraft reverts to a simpler pitch-control mode while the autopilot remains active, increasing pilot workload at low altitude. The issue appears in software versions 14 and 14.1, used during certification testing of the 737 MAX 7 (certified on August 3) and the pending 737 MAX 10.
Background & Context
The glitch was first reported to Boeing by an airline in November 2024. After an internal review, Boeing concluded in February 2025 that the condition did not constitute a safety issue. Additional information from operators later in 2025 prompted a formal safety-review board, and Boeing submitted its findings to the FAA in September 2026. The FAA will convene a Corrective Action Review Board (CARB) to decide whether mandatory corrective action is required.
Data & Statistics
- Affected software versions: U14 (version 14) and U14.1 (version 14.1).
- Southwest Airlines and United Airlines have refused delivery of any new 737 MAX aircraft containing the affected software, opting for earlier versions.
- Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines and United Airlines state that none of their in-service MAX fleets run the problematic software.
Official Statements & Responses
- Boeing’s spokesperson said the company informed all operators in August that pilots might lose automated flight guidance during the specific landing scenario and that existing procedures already cover safe handling. Engineers are developing a permanent software fix.
- The FAA confirmed awareness of a potential issue in the software update and said the agency will act immediately if the CARB identifies a safety concern.
- Kelly Ortberg, Boeing CEO, told reporters the company is “in close coordination” with the FAA and expects certification of the MAX 10 to be completed soon.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- The Wall Street Journal, Reuters and multiple aviation outlets report that the exact number of aircraft worldwide running the affected software is unknown.
- Some sources indicate the glitch could affect up to 96 aircraft operated by Indian carriers Air India Express and Akasa Air, while others do not mention any impact outside the United States.
- It remains unclear whether the FAA’s CARB must conclude its review before the agency can issue the final type certificate for the MAX 10.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Last month, we informed all 737 operators about a software issue where pilots may not have access to automated flight guidance during a specific landing scenario,” — Boeing spokesperson
- “We’re in close coordination with them [the FAA], and I think you’re going to see that certification very soon,” — Kelly Ortberg, Boeing CEO
What’s Next
The FAA’s CARB will review Boeing’s safety findings and proposed software remedy in the coming weeks. Boeing aims to accelerate its permanent software update, originally slated for early 2028, and to issue revised pilot guidance—currently planned for November—so that deliveries of the 737 MAX 7 and MAX 10 can proceed without further regulatory delay.