Boeing disclosed a software flaw in some 737 Max jets that can remove automated flight guidance in a specific post‑aborted‑landing scenario. The company says pilots are trained to handle the situation using existing procedures while engineers work on a permanent software update. It is unclear how many of the 2,000+ delivered Max jets are affected. The announcement comes amid ongoing scrutiny after past crashes and a January 2024 fuselage incident.
Boeing Reveals Software Flaw in 737 Max That Can Cut Automated Flight Guidance
FILE PHOTO - A view of a logo with the word "Boeing" on a hall of the new Boeing distribution center. (is associated with: «Boeing identifies new software issue in 737 Max jets») Georg Wendt/dpa
Boeing said on Saturday it has discovered a software flaw in some 737 Max jets that can disable automated flight guidance in a specific landing scenario following an aborted approach.
The company said the issue arises during a particular sequence after a go‑around and could temporarily leave crews without autopilot and flight‑director guidance. Boeing emphasized that flight crews are trained to manage the situation safely using existing procedures while engineers develop a permanent software update to correct the problem.
Scope and Safety Context
It is not yet clear how many of the more than 2,000 delivered 737 Max aircraft may be affected. Boeing did not report any incidents tied to this flaw and said current procedures enable pilots to fly the aircraft manually until the software update is deployed.
Historical And Industry Context
The 737 Max model was at the center of Boeing's worst crisis after two crashes in October 2018 and March 2019 killed 346 people; an automated flight‑control system played a key role in those accidents. Boeing later halted Max production for a period, and output remains below earlier levels.
The type has continued to face scrutiny. In January 2024, a nearly new 737 experienced separation of a portion of its fuselage during climb, prompting renewed questions about quality control at the company.
What Boeing Says: Pilots are trained to handle the affected scenario using existing procedures and engineers are working on a software fix to resolve the issue permanently.
Next steps: Regulators and airlines will review Boeing's findings; the timeline for a software patch and fleetwide installation has not been announced.
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