Boeing Flags 737 MAX Software Glitch Affecting Navigation After Missed Approach

Boeing has disclosed a newly identified software glitch in its 737 MAX jets that can disable an automated navigation feature when pilots alter their planned flight path after abandoning a landing attempt. The problem stems from an update to cockpit software and could, in certain scenarios, require crews to fly manually without some autopilot functions.

Industry officials said the loss of automated navigation at low altitude, potentially in poor weather, could add to pilot workload during a critical phase of flight. Boeing has acknowledged the issue but maintains it does not pose a safety risk, stating that it shared information with operators to reinforce existing pilot procedures and that its engineers are working on a software update to resolve the matter permanently. The company is also developing a procedure to help pilots restore the automated navigation feature if it becomes unavailable.

Boeing notified 737 MAX operators about the glitch in late August. Southwest Airlines and United Airlines have told the manufacturer they do not want to accept new aircraft carrying the affected software and have instead requested an earlier version. The Federal Aviation Administration is examining the problem and will act if necessary, according to a senior agency official. The review could affect approval of Boeing's newest variants, the MAX 7 and MAX 10, should regulators determine the glitch creates an unsafe condition.

The FAA cleared the MAX 7 for passenger service last month, and Boeing Chief Executive Kelly Ortberg has said he expects the MAX 10 to secure regulatory approval soon. The issue complicates plans at Southwest, which has waited years for the smaller MAX 7 and intends to place it in service next year. Delta, United, American and Alaska Airlines have MAX 10 aircraft on order.

It is unclear how many aircraft are operating with the affected software. Boeing said it is seeking an accurate count because airlines are not required to inform the manufacturer when they install an update. According to aviation data firm Cirium, 2,422 MAX 8 and MAX 9 aircraft are flying worldwide. Alaska, American, Southwest and United said none of their aircraft carries the flawed software, and Boeing has told airlines they can revert to an earlier version.

Boeing informed operators in August that it expected to issue further guidance by November and provide a permanent fix in early 2028, and now says it is trying to accelerate both timelines. The manufacturer said it first learned of the problem from a MAX operator in November 2024, but the issue did not initially meet its threshold for a safety review. It began a formal review this month after receiving additional feedback and shared its findings with the FAA.

WestJet offered a different assessment, saying the matter is not considered a safety issue and that standard operating procedures and training are in place to mitigate such events. GE Aerospace, which developed the software, said it is supporting the FAA's evaluation.

The development is being closely watched in India, where Akasa Air operates an all-Boeing 737 MAX fleet and Air India Express uses the 737-8 alongside older 737 models. No Indian carrier has been identified as having aircraft equipped with the affected software, and there is no public indication that flights in India have been disrupted.