Full Breakdown
Boeing 737 MAX Software Glitch Triggers FAA Review and Delays MAX 10 Certification
By Drooid · · How we work
The Glitch and Immediate Impact
Boeing identified a fault in the flight-management-computer software of certain 737 MAX jets that can cause the vertical navigation (VNAV) function to disengage after a missed-approach or go-around. The condition occurs when the autopilot is engaged on a precision approach, the crew aborts the landing, and then modifies the programmed flight path. VNAV normally follows altitude and speed constraints computed by the FMC; when it drops out, the aircraft reverts to simpler pitch-control modes such as level-change or vertical-speed. Autopilot remains available, but pilots must manually manage altitude and speed, increasing workload during a critical phase of flight. The fault is limited to software versions 14 and 14.1 installed on some newly built MAX 8, 9, 7 and 10 airframes.
Background & Context
The issue was first reported by an airline in November 2024. Boeing’s internal review concluded in February 2025 that the behaviour did not constitute a safety issue. Operator feedback later in 2025 prompted a formal safety review board and a submission to the FAA in September 2026. The FAA certified the 737 MAX 7 on August 3 2026 with version 14 installed, while the MAX 10 completed its final certification flight on September 16 2026. The agency is scheduled to announce on September 28 that certification of the MAX 10 will be delayed until the software concern is resolved.
Data & Statistics
- Affected software: versions 14 and 14.1 of the FMC.
- Airlines reporting that none of their in-service MAX fleets use the affected versions: Alaska, American, Southwest, United.
- Southwest and United have declined delivery of new MAX aircraft equipped with the flawed software, opting for earlier loads.
Official Statements & Responses
Boeing issued a bulletin in late August informing operators of the issue, reinforcing pilot procedures, and announcing work on a permanent software update expected in 2028, with revised guidance slated for November 2026.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said the agency will delay the MAX 10 “until we’re satisfied that we don’t have an issue here.” Boeing spokesperson noted the company continues to follow the FAA’s lead in the certification process.
Criticism & Opposition
Southwest and United have publicly opposed delivery of any new MAX jets containing the flawed software, demanding earlier versions. Their stance highlights lingering confidence gaps among major U.S. carriers despite Boeing’s assurances that pilots are trained to land without VNAV.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the total number of aircraft worldwide that already have versions 14 or 14.1 installed; Boeing has not provided a precise figure, and airlines have only confirmed that their current fleets are unaffected. The FAA has not clarified whether the Corrective Action Review Board’s (CARB) findings must be finalized before the MAX 10 can receive certification, leaving regulatory timing uncertain.
What’s Next
The FAA’s CARB will review Boeing’s safety analysis and proposed software correction in the coming weeks. Boeing is accelerating its 2028 permanent fix and November 2026 guidance updates in response to airline feedback. The outcome will determine whether the MAX 10 certification proceeds as scheduled or faces further postponement, shaping delivery timelines for both the MAX 7 and MAX 10 programs into 2027.