Boeing reports software glitch on some 737 Max aircraft — CNBC

In the United States, Boeing has reported a software issue affecting some 737 Max aircraft that may affect automated functions during certain approach procedures. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said it is assessing the situation and will review the manufacturer's proposed fix, CNBC reports.

When the problem may occur

According to Boeing, the glitch may occur after a go-around if pilots change the programmed flight path. In that case, the crew must take additional steps to use automated tools during subsequent approaches.

The company provided aircraft operators with information confirming existing safe response procedures for pilots. Boeing engineers are working on a software update intended to permanently resolve the issue. The manufacturer also noted that pilots are trained to land without the automated system.

FAA and airline response

The FAA said it would take immediate action if it determines that there is a threat to flight safety. Boeing, meanwhile, is working with airlines to formalize a procedure that would allow pilots to reactivate automated vertical navigation if such a situation arises.

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US airlines told CNBC that their fleets do not include Max 8 and Max 9 aircraft with the updated software version linked to the glitch. According to the outlet, airlines may return some Max aircraft to the previous software version.

Southwest Airlines said that none of its aircraft, including newly delivered Max 8s, are equipped with version U.14. United Airlines also said it is not accepting deliveries of Max aircraft with the new software.

Questions remain regarding the Max 7 and Max 10 models. The FAA certified the Max 7, the smallest model in the family, in early August with the latest software version. According to Cirium, 2,430 aircraft from the 737 Max family are in service worldwide.