↪️Boeing has identified a new issue within the flight management computer software used on select 737 MAX aircraft. The glitch can manifest in a rare operational scenario: when a missed approach is executed following an autopilot-coupled precision approach, and the flight crew subsequently modifies the pre-programmed flight plan. In this specific sequence, the aircraft’s vertical navigation system (VNAV) can disengage, reverting to a more basic automatic pitch mode. While the pilots retain control of the aircraft, the unexpected mode change can increase cockpit workload during a critical phase of flight.
↪️The issue affects versions 14 and 14.1 of the flight management computer software. Boeing stated in a bulletin issued to airlines last month that the condition does not pose an immediate flight safety risk. While the FAA continues to evaluate the situation alongside Boeing and operators, Southwest Airlines and United Airlines have requested to take delivery of new aircraft equipped with the prior software version instead. Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines all confirmed that their active 737 MAX fleets are not operating with the affected software release.
