Software Issue Identified on Boeing 737 MAX Does Not Pose a Safety Risk
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has determined that a software issue identified in the Flight Management Computers of some Boeing 737 MAX aircraft does not pose a flight safety risk. Following an assessment by the FAA’s expert review board, the agency said pilots retain full control of the aircraft if the issue occurs and that cockpit indications remain clear and unambiguous.
The issue is associated with U14.0 and U14.1 versions of the Flight Management Computer software. Under a specific go-around scenario, if pilots modify the programmed flight path, the automated Vertical Navigation (VNAV) system may disengage. While this could increase pilot workload, the autopilot remains operational, and pilots are trained to operate the aircraft without VNAV.
The issue was first identified by WestJet pilots during a validation flight in 2024 and subsequently reported to Boeing. Boeing is working on a permanent software update, while the FAA’s determination has also removed one of the significant hurdles affecting the certification process of the Boeing 737 MAX 10. However, the decision does not mean that the MAX 10 has been certified, as the remaining certification requirements still need to be completed.
