Boeing has identified a software glitch on some 737 MAX aircraft that could affect an automated flight guidance/navigation function during an aborted landing or missed approach. Multiple outlets, citing reporting from The Wall Street Journal and company documents, say the issue could cause an automated system to disengage during the landing phase.
The FAA is investigating the problem, while Boeing has told operators it does not pose an immediate safety risk and says the aircraft are not necessarily unsafe to operate. CBS reports the potential outcome as disengagement of an automated flight guidance system during an aborted landing. NDTV and The Hindu add that the condition can occur after pilots change the planned flight path following an abandoned landing attempt.
Outlets also differ on timing and details of Boeing’s internal handling. Toronto Sun reports Boeing first learned of the issue from a 737 MAX operator in November 2024, then concluded it did not initially meet criteria for a safety review. The Economic Times and other reports attribute key points to late August communications to operators, and note Reuters was unable to immediately verify the report. Times of India notes renewed scrutiny in January 2024 related to a separate incident, while stressing regulators and Boeing are still assessing whether further action is required.
